Patiala, June 27: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann declared that the overall transformation of rural areas is vital to making Punjab the leading state in the nation. Addressing a gathering during a Sarpanch Milni program on Friday, the Chief Minister urged village heads to eliminate local groupism and focus strictly on transparent execution of public projects. To support their efforts, he announced that the state government will increase the monthly honorarium for Sarpanches to ₹10,000 starting August 15.
The Chief Minister asserted that Panchayats serve as the ultimate foundation of democracy because their decisions carry deep respect within the community. He maintained that since a significant portion of the population resides in rural areas, village leaders act as the essential bridge to implement pro-people policies at the grassroots level.
“Panchayats are known as the foundation of democracy because they have immense power and their decisions are obeyed by the entire village with respect. It is the bounden duty of every Sarpanch to safeguard the interests of villagers and cherish their aspirations. Around 70% of our country’s population lives in villages, due to which Panchayati Raj Institutions are regarded as the lighthouse of democracy,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann declared.
The Chief Minister stated that the current administration is providing direct funding for works under the supervision of Panchayats, marking a shift from past practices where previous regimes allegedly stalled development grants. He affirmed that there is an absolute abundance of funds available for rural welfare, provided the money is utilized neutrally and responsibly.
While mapping out the layout for village upgrades, the Chief Minister advised heads to focus on establishing educational libraries, solar street lighting, and improved schools before focusing on standard street paving. He noted that village leaders have a moral obligation to ensure that every penny from taxpayers is accounted for without any political interference.
“Sarpanches should give priority to the construction of libraries, schools, solar lights and then the streets so that holistic development of villages is ensured. This is imperative for accelerating the development of the state and is the need of the hour to make Punjab the frontrunner in the country. I assure every Sarpanch of my government’s fulsome support and cooperation,” the Chief Minister affirmed.
The administration has urged local bodies to initiate constructive local campaigns aimed at keeping residential areas clean, green, and completely free from pollution. The Chief Minister concluded by asking Sarpanches to lead the campaign against substance abuse, safeguard communal harmony, and ensure that every section of rural society benefits from state grants.
