PARTICIPATION OF COMMUNITY COMMITTEE IN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT IN BUENG KUM DISTRICT BANGKOK

Abstract

This research article aims to study the problem. Participatory role of the community committee and applying the principles of Iddhipattham to develop the role of the local community committee in Bueng Kum District. Bangkok. It is a qualitative research study that collects data from four key groups of informants: Buddhist scholars, political science scholars, government officials from the Bueng Kum District Office, and community committee members. A total of 27 participants were selected purposively based on their representative characteristics within each group. Data collection was conducted using semi-structured interviews, with a content validity index (S-CVI) of 1.00 for the entire instrument. Additionally, a focus group discussion involving 8 experts was conducted. The data were analyzed using content analysis techniques in the context of the study.

The research findings revealed that: 1. Problems Identified Waste management is still inefficient, traffic lacks cooperation with relevant local agencies, drug-related problems stem from population density and environmental factors, and local streets and village walkways suffer from poor maintenance, particularly on private land. Short-term flooding occurs, and air pollution comes from multiple sources including vehicle exhaust fumes, emissions from boats in the Saen Saep Canal, and poorly regulated construction projects. 2. Community Committee Involvement: The community committee acts as a driving force for community development, serving as an intermediary to receive reports from the public and coordinate with the district office or other local organizations. Volunteer groups are formed within the community to collaborate in monitoring and addressing community issues. 3. Community Committee and Development: The committee operates according to the Four Paths to Success (Iddhipada). The principle of Chanda (satisfaction) drives volunteers to help solve community problems. The principle of Viriya (effort) motivates persistent coordination and problem-solving efforts. The principle of Citta (thoughtfulness) encourages attentiveness to community needs, including planning and organizing awareness-raising activities to foster collaboration in addressing local problems. Lastly, the principle of Vimamsa (investigation) involves careful consideration and assessment of the impact on the community for sustainable long-term development.