Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today held a meeting with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma in New Delhi to review the implementation of Viksit Bharat GRAM G and other rural development programs in the state. They also reviewed the progress of Gram Sabha-led planning, transparent utilisation of public funds and the Gram Chaupal model, which have helped in acceleration of rural employment generation. They also discussed the encouraging outcomes of village-level implementation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening participatory, transparent and sustainable rural development.

During the meeting, Mr Chouhan informed that 445 crore rupees has already been released to Rajasthan under VB-GRAM G, of which nearly 200 crore rupees has been utilised. He said that the proposed second instalment of 180 crore rupees will be released once the currently sanctioned funds are substantially and timely utilised. The Minister also noted that around 12 thousand crore rupees are expected to be invested annually in rural development works across the state. Mr Chouhan also commended the Rajasthan Government for its performance under the PM Micro Irrigation Scheme. He said the state had efficiently utilised the entire sanctioned allocation within the stipulated time frame, making it eligible for additional financial assistance in the future.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said that the Central schemes have significantly strengthened employment generation and infrastructure development in rural Rajasthan. He said that the State Government is giving priority to works identified by Gram Sabhas and Gram Panchayats and has placed people’s participation at the centre of rural planning and implementation.