Ahmedabad: The Gujarat State Cabinet has unanimously approved the creation of 17 new talukas, expanding the total number of talukas in the state from 252 to 269. The decision aims to promote administrative decentralization, making government offices more accessible to residents, especially those in remote villages, while enhancing the delivery of social, economic, health, and educational services.
Administrative Decentralization to Benefit Citizens
State Government Spokesperson Rushikesh Patel highlighted that the newly formed talukas will reduce the time, effort, and expenses that citizens currently incur when traveling to taluka headquarters. This citizen-centric approach is designed to provide more efficient governance and comprehensive service delivery at the district and taluka levels.
Formation of Vav-Tharad District
The Cabinet also approved the formation of a new district, Vav-Tharad, carved out of Banaskantha district. This new district will include six talukas — Vav, Tharad, Suigam, Bhabhar, Diyodar, and Lakhani — with Tharad designated as the district headquarters. This move is expected to streamline administrative operations and further drive regional development.
Background and Vision
Rushikesh Patel noted that the initiative builds on former Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of strengthening taluka-level governance through the “Our Taluka, Vibrant Taluka” (ATVT) program. Since 2013, when 23 talukas were created, this marks the largest expansion under the current government led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
List of Newly Approved Talukas
Alignment with “Developed India @2047” Vision
The expansion aligns with Gujarat’s long-term goal of becoming a developed state by 2047. The creation of new talukas will also increase the number of developed talukas eligible for special development grants. The Chief Minister’s recent Gramotthan scheme will further bring urban-style infrastructure and facilities to these areas.
Official Notification Soon
The official government notification on the formation of these new talukas is expected to be published shortly, marking a significant milestone in Gujarat’s administrative reforms and regional development.
