The Gujarat government on Friday announced the construction of independent Gram Panchayat buildings-cum-talati residences in 2,666 villages across the state, involving a total investment of ₹663 crore. The initiative is aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and improving access to government services in rural areas.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel carried out a simultaneous e-foundation laying ceremony from Bhadaran village in Anand district, marking the formal launch of the statewide project.
Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat Vision
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the initiative reflects Gujarat’s commitment to village-centric development, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. He highlighted that the government has adopted the Prime Minister’s “saturation approach” to ensure that every Gram Panchayat in the state has its own dedicated administrative infrastructure.
“These Gram Panchayat buildings-cum-talati residences will allow villagers to access government services easily at the local level, while also improving administrative efficiency,” Patel said.
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Better Service Delivery at the Grassroots
The new buildings are expected to significantly enhance service delivery, governance efficiency, and coordination at the village level. With dedicated infrastructure, Gram Panchayats will be better equipped to handle administrative functions and public service requirements.
Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana Launched
During the same programme, Chief Minister Patel also launched the Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana across Gujarat.
In the first phase, the scheme will cover 114 villages that function as taluka headquarters but do not have municipal status. These villages will be provided with urban-equivalent facilities, including:
- Improved road infrastructure
- Drinking water supply systems
- Sanitation and drainage facilities
- Solar street lighting
- e-Gram services
- Community halls
Expansion Planned for Large Gram Panchayats
The Chief Minister said the government plans to extend the scheme to Gram Panchayats with populations exceeding 10,000 in the coming years. The objective is to bridge the rural-urban development gap and ensure balanced growth, guided by the Prime Minister’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas.
Focus on Water Conservation and Sustainable Farming
Patel also highlighted ongoing water conservation efforts under the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign, including rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge initiatives. Each MLA has been allocated a special grant of ₹50 lakh to create local recharge infrastructure in their constituencies.
He further appealed for the adoption of cow-based natural farming, stressing its importance in improving soil health and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.
Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary, observed as Martyrs’ Day, noting that Gandhiji’s concept of Gram Swaraj continues to inspire efforts towards building self-reliant villages.
Leaders Highlight Rural Development Impact
Panchayat and Housing Minister Rushikesh Patel said the construction of 2,666 Gram Panchayat buildings would give a new direction to rural development in Gujarat. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Ramanbhai Solanki described the initiative as a major step towards bringing government services closer to citizens at the grassroots.
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