Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Punjab government has launched an initiative to develop 3,763 Scheduled Caste-dominated villages across the state as ‘model villages’. Under the initiative, ₹201 crore has been released to all Deputy Commissioners to accelerate development works and strengthen basic infrastructure in these villages.
Punjab Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljeet Kaur said the initiative aims to improve infrastructure in rural areas, provide better public facilities and ensure that the benefits of development reach people across different sections of society.
According to the minister, villages where Scheduled Caste communities account for 40% or more of the total population have been selected under the initiative. The funds released by the Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Department will be used for essential infrastructure and other development works in these villages.
Dr. Baljeet Kaur said additional funds would also be released in phases according to the requirements for the overall development of all 3,763 selected villages. The government intends to gradually develop these villages as model villages with improved basic amenities.
The development works will focus on areas such as solid and liquid waste management, installation of solar street lights, strengthening of Anganwadi centres and construction of toilets wherever required. These measures are aimed at improving cleanliness, sanitation, lighting and public facilities in rural areas.
The minister said the initiative is not limited to infrastructure development but is also aimed at improving the overall quality of life of rural residents. Better facilities are expected to provide children, women, senior citizens and families with a cleaner, safer and more convenient living environment.
She said the ₹201 crore released at present is the first phase of the larger development plan. Further financial assistance will be provided gradually, based on the requirements of the selected villages.
Dr. Baljeet Kaur said the Punjab government is working towards strengthening social justice, equal development and good governance in rural areas. The initiative will focus on improving essential infrastructure while giving priority to sanitation, public amenities and other facilities required by village residents.
The government has stated that the development programme will help strengthen rural communities and improve access to basic facilities in the selected villages. The 3,763 villages will be developed in phases as model villages under the initiative.
