In March 1952, the Community Projects Administration was set up in India under the Planning Commission to administer the programmes relating to community development. The Community Development Programme was inaugurated on October 2, 1952. It was an important landmark in the history of rural development. In Kerala Rural Development Department started its functions in 1987. Now the Rural Development Department has separate ministerial services in Block Offices, DRDAs, Extension Training centres and the Offices of the Assistant Development Commissioners (General). The charge of the rural development activities at the district level is held by concerned District Collectors. However, the overall control and supervision of their activities are entrusted to the Commissionerate of Rural Development. A separate ministerial wing is also formed for the Commissionerate of Rural Development.