Gandhinagar: In a landmark event celebrating grassroots democracy, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, along with Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri C.R. Patil, felicitated newly elected Sarpanchs and Gram Panchayat members at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. The program, organized by the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, recognized outstanding leadership and commitment to rural development.
Doubling of Cleanliness Fund: ₹4 to ₹8 Per Person
In a major policy announcement, CM Patel declared the doubling of monthly cleanliness allocation in rural areas—from ₹4 to ₹8 per person. This move aims to instill a competitive and sustained sanitation culture in villages. He called upon Sarpanchs to act as change-makers and foster an environment where every village aspires to be the cleanest.
₹35 Cr DBT Grant for Samaras Panchayats
Highlighting the significance of consensus-based governance, the Chief Minister announced a ₹35 crore incentive grant, transferred via DBT, to 761 Gram Panchayats that achieved “Samaras” (unanimous) elections. He emphasized that such unity enhances transparency and efficiency in rural administration.
₹1,236 Cr Allocated for Rural Development Schemes
The state government has sanctioned ₹1,236 crore for various rural development initiatives. These include housing under PMAY, employment through MGNREGA, digital empowerment via E-Gram Vishwagram, and improved rural connectivity and amenities.
CM: “Aapnu Gaam, Aapnu Gaurav” Should Be Sarpanchs’ Guiding Mantra
CM Patel urged newly elected leaders to internalize the ethos of “Aapnu Gaam, Aapnu Gaurav” (Our Village, Our Pride), transforming villages into engines of development. He emphasized the critical role of Panchayats in fulfilling the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
Union Jal Shakti Minister: Sarpanchs Are ‘CMs’ of Their Villages
Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri C.R. Patil congratulated the newly elected members and called upon them to become moral and administrative pillars of their villages. He highlighted the achievements of Jal Jeevan Mission, noting that over 15.65 crore households have access to tap water. He urged active participation in “Catch the Rain” and ‘Jal Sanchay Abhiyan’ initiatives, encouraging villages to build rainwater harvesting structures through community effort.
“Suvidha Sheherni, Aatma Gamdano” – A Vision for Rural Gujarat
Rural Development Minister Raghavji Patel reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that villages enjoy urban amenities while preserving their identity and soul. He credited successful implementation of government schemes for the improved infrastructure and quality of life in rural areas.
Appreciation and Vision for the Future
Certificates of appreciation were awarded to high-performing Panchayats, especially those with Samaras status and those excelling in governance and cleanliness. Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Shri Pankaj Joshi and Principal Secretary Shri Milind Torwane, attended the event alongside hundreds of newly elected Panchayat leaders.
