Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu expressed reservations about the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G), stating it is not beneficial for the state. He highlighted that unlike the previous scheme, MNREGA, which had 100% central funding, the new scheme requires the state to bear 10% of the costs. The Chief Minister emphasized the state’s efforts to strengthen the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department for comprehensive rural development.
Presiding over a departmental review meeting, Sukhu mentioned the ongoing recruitment to fill vacant posts in the department to enhance administrative efficiency. He announced a provision of Rs 30 crore for completing the construction of Panchayat Ghars across the state and directed additional funds for the District Panchayat Resource Centre in Una. The government’s focus on empowering rural women was underscored with financial support to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to improve their livelihoods.
In a bid to enhance marketing opportunities for SHG products, construction of a Himachal Hat in Shimla and showrooms in Pandoh, Kullu, and Dharamsala is underway. The distribution of food vans to SHGs to boost their businesses was mentioned, with plans for further distribution in the future. The Chief Minister urged officials to expedite the implementation of departmental schemes to ensure timely benefits for the intended recipients.
Sukhu instructed the Secretary (Rural Development and Panchayati Raj) to integrate all flagship schemes of the department into the Chief Minister’s Dashboard for efficient online monitoring.
