Solan
Stressing the need for timely implementation of government projects, Arki MLA Sanjay Awasthi on Thursday directed officials to ensure that all development schemes are completed within the stipulated timeframe so that their benefits reach the public without delay.
Addressing a public grievance redressal programme at Arki Rest House in Solan district, Awasthi instructed officials from various departments to utilise development funds efficiently and within the prescribed period. He said delays in project execution deprive people of the intended benefits of welfare schemes.
Highlighting the initiatives of the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the MLA said several measures have been introduced to strengthen rural development and improve farmers’ incomes. He said the government has fixed a minimum support price (MSP) of ₹150 per kg for naturally grown turmeric, while cow milk is being procured at ₹61 per litre and buffalo milk at ₹71 per litre. Naturally grown maize and wheat are being purchased at ₹50 and ₹80 per kg, respectively, with payments being made directly to farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Awasthi also highlighted the Rajiv Gandhi Forest Conservation Scheme, under which women and youth groups are being encouraged to undertake plantation drives. He said the Forest Department is providing saplings along with incentives for their maintenance and conservation.
Calling for greater public awareness, the MLA asked officials to ensure that information about government schemes reaches every eligible beneficiary. He said the state government is working with a people-centric approach to extend the benefits of welfare programmes to all sections of society.
Referring to development works in the Arki Assembly constituency, Awasthi said all gram panchayats have received development funds over the past three-and-a-half years. He added that priority has been given to strengthening road connectivity, education and healthcare infrastructure while ensuring the timely execution of projects.
During the programme, the MLA heard public grievances and directed the concerned officials to resolve them on priority.
State Congress Committee General Secretary and Arki Assembly constituency in-charge Anita Verma, Block Congress Arki president Satish Kashyap, Municipal Council councillors, newly elected panchayat representatives, SDM Arki Nishant Tomar, Executive Engineer Sandeep Kumar, SDO Jal Shakti Vinay Kumar, SDO PWD Beli Ram, BMO Dr Mukta Rastogi, DFO Kunihar Rajkumar, officials from various departments and local residents attended the programme.
