Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma highlighted the significance of sarpanches as the voice of villages and the initial step in Gram Panchayat administration. He stressed the need for robust panchayats to strengthen the state, stating that development hinges on rural areas. The state government is striving to actualize Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’.
The Chief Minister engaged with outgoing sarpanches from all seven divisions of the state at his residence, underscoring that the sarpanch role is not just a position but a platform for service and dedication. Villagers rely on sarpanches for various essentials like welfare schemes, infrastructure, and government benefits. Sarpanches play a crucial role in evaluating the effectiveness of policies at the grassroots level.
Sharma emphasized the government’s efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in the Panchayati Raj system by fortifying Gram Panchayats. Initiatives include the construction and refurbishment of Gram Panchayat buildings and the establishment of Atal Gyan Kendras in every Gram Panchayat. The formation of new Zila Parishads and Panchayati Raj institutions reflects a commitment to rural development.
The state government has appointed outgoing sarpanches as administrators post their tenure to ensure continuity in benefiting from their experience. Sharma mentioned the Central government’s new roadmap for rural development through reforms in MGNREGA and the launch of the ‘Developed India Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural)’. The government is dedicated to uplifting all sections of society, including youth, women, the underprivileged, and farmers.
