Gujarat Government Allocates Rs 663 Crore for Panchayat Buildings in 2,666 Villages
The Gujarat government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has sanctioned a substantial amount of Rs 663 crore for the construction of independent panchayat buildings-cum-talati residences across 2,666 villages in the state. This significant financial allocation was announced on Friday during a ceremony held in Bhadran village, located in Anand district, where the Chief Minister laid the e-foundation stones for these new structures.
Strengthening Rural Infrastructure and Administrative Efficiency
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel emphasized that this initiative reflects the state's unwavering commitment to enhancing rural infrastructure. He stated, "The government has decided to ensure that every gram panchayat has its own building." This move is expected to empower villagers by providing them with easier access to government services at the local level, thereby improving administrative efficiency and service delivery in rural areas.
Patel further explained that the construction of these independent buildings will facilitate better governance and streamline the delivery of essential services, making it more convenient for residents to interact with local authorities and avail themselves of various government schemes and programs.
Launch of Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana
In addition to the panchayat building initiative, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also launched the 'Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana' on a statewide basis. This ambitious scheme aims to transform rural areas by providing them with urban-equivalent facilities. Under the first phase of the scheme, 114 villages that serve as taluka headquarters but lack municipalities will be covered.
The key components of the Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana include:
- Improved road infrastructure to enhance connectivity and mobility.
- Reliable water supply systems to ensure access to clean drinking water.
- Advanced sanitation systems to promote hygiene and public health.
- Solar street lighting to increase safety and reduce energy costs.
- E-gram services to digitize and streamline administrative processes.
- Community halls to foster social cohesion and cultural activities.
Future Expansion Plans
Chief Minister Patel highlighted that the state government plans to extend the Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana in the future to gram panchayats with a population exceeding 10,000. This expansion aims to ensure that a larger number of rural communities benefit from modern amenities and infrastructure, thereby bridging the urban-rural divide and promoting overall development.
The combined efforts of constructing panchayat buildings and implementing the Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana underscore the Gujarat government's dedication to fostering sustainable growth and improving the quality of life in rural areas. These initiatives are expected to have a lasting impact on rural governance, infrastructure, and service delivery, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.
