The Madhya Pradesh cabinet has granted financial approval for projects worth Rs 29,000 crore, focusing on infrastructure development and social security initiatives. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Infrastructure Development Projects
A significant portion of the approved funds, amounting to Rs 20,000 crore, has been allocated for infrastructure projects. These include the construction and upgradation of roads, bridges, and water supply schemes across the state. The cabinet also approved the development of industrial corridors and the expansion of the state's power grid.
Key infrastructure projects include the four-laning of major highways, the construction of new bridges over the Narmada and Chambal rivers, and the establishment of a new industrial park in the Gwalior region. These projects are expected to create thousands of jobs and improve connectivity in rural and urban areas.
Social Security Schemes
For social security, the cabinet allocated Rs 9,000 crore to strengthen welfare programs. This includes increased funding for the old-age pension scheme, widow pension, and disability pension. Additionally, the cabinet approved a new scheme to provide financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections.
The government also announced an increase in the honorarium for Anganwadi workers and helpers, benefiting over 2.5 lakh workers. The cabinet further approved a proposal to provide free textbooks and uniforms to students in government schools from Classes 1 to 12.
Additional Decisions
Other key decisions include the approval of a new policy to promote electric vehicles in the state, with subsidies for buyers and incentives for manufacturers. The cabinet also gave its nod to the creation of a special task force to combat cybercrime and enhance digital security.
Chief Minister Chouhan stated that these approvals align with the state's vision of inclusive growth and will significantly improve the quality of life for citizens. The funds will be released in phases over the next two financial years.
