* Infrastructure development to get major boost in villages with 40% or more Scheduled Caste population
* Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Government ensuring equitable development reaches every village and every family
* Cleaner villages, well-lit streets, strengthened Anganwadi Centres and improved sanitation facilities to transform rural lives
Chandigarh, September 27:
Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur today announced that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, has launched a major initiative to develop 3,763 Scheduled Caste (SC)-Majority villages across the State as ‘Model Villages’. The initiative aims to strengthen rural infrastructure, provide better civic amenities and ensure that the benefits of development reach every section of society.
Sharing details, Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities has released ₹201 crore to all Deputy Commissioners across the State under this initiative. She said the funds will be utilised to accelerate basic infrastructure development works in villages having 40% or more Scheduled Caste population. She further stated that additional funds will be released in a phased manner, as required, to ensure the comprehensive development of all the identified 3,763 villages.
The Cabinet Minister said that the Punjab Government is working with the vision of creating a State where the benefits of development reach every village and every household. She said the Government is committed to promoting social justice, equality and inclusive growth by strengthening rural areas with modern facilities and ensuring better living conditions for people.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the released funds will be utilised for important development works including Solid and Liquid Waste Management systems, installation of solar street lights, strengthening of Anganwadi Centres and creation of toilet facilities in the identified villages. These initiatives will help improve cleanliness, environmental conditions, public safety and essential civic amenities in rural areas.
She said that this initiative goes beyond infrastructure development and is aimed at improving the quality of life of rural communities. Better facilities for children, women, senior citizens and every family will ensure a healthier, safer and more dignified living environment. The initiative will further strengthen rural communities and help villages emerge as cleaner, modern and self-reliant units.
The Cabinet Minister said that the release of ₹201 crore marks the first phase of this ambitious development programme. The Punjab Government will continue to provide financial assistance in a phased manner to transform all identified villages into Model Villages equipped with improved infrastructure and modern public facilities.
Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, remains firmly committed to social justice, people-centric governance and inclusive development, ensuring that every village becomes an equal partner in Punjab’s journey of progress and prosperity.
