Chandigarh, Sep 24 Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced on Thursday that the state government will spend over Rs 750 crore for the holistic and inclusive development of 3,763 villages where the Scheduled Caste population exceeds 40 per cent.
Chairing a meeting to review the Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Department’s functioning, the chief minister said the initiative would give a major push to social justice and balanced rural development.
Mann said, “Every village deserves equal growth opportunities, and development must reach those sections and areas which have remained deprived for decades. The Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Department will act as the nodal department, while the Rural Development and Horticulture Departments will provide the necessary support.”
According to an official statement, Mann said Deputy Commissioners will identify and prioritise works based on each village’s specific needs, ensuring public money is spent where it can make the greatest difference.
“Rs 20 lakh will initially be provided as untied funds to each village, while the allocation can be enhanced after proper utilisation of the funds and assessment of additional requirements,” he said.
Mann said a Specific Village Development Plan (SVDP) will be prepared for every village so that development is need-based, coordinated and result-oriented.
“Our aim is not merely to spend money but to transform villages and improve the quality of life of every resident. The state government has embarked on a massive campaign for the development of Punjab and no village should be left behind in this development journey,” he said.
The chief minister said the funds can be utilised for essential public amenities such as RO systems, additional school rooms, libraries, ambulances, Mohalla Clinics, solar street lights and other locally required infrastructure.
Mann said the Rural Development Department has already prepared a broad framework to ensure effective and judicious utilisation of the funds.
“We are committed to the economic empowerment of people,” he said.
Reviewing the implementation of the Post-Matric Scholarship scheme, the chief minister said 97 per cent of the payments have already been disbursed and directed officials to release the remaining payments immediately.
“Social justice is not merely about welfare, but it is about dignity, opportunity and empowerment. We are committed to creating an environment where every family, irrespective of its social or economic background, can live with dignity and build a better future,” he said.
(PTI News)
