Shivraj Singh Chouhan outlines vision for eradicating poverty in rural areas at NIRDPR meeting

In his speech, Shri Chouhan highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj, which stresses the importance of infrastructural development in rural areas.

Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, outlined a vision for eradicating poverty in rural areas during his address at the 66th General Council meeting of the National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) in Rajendra Nagar, Telangana. Emphasizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to a poverty-free village, Shri Chouhan underscored the need for comprehensive rural development.

In his speech, Shri Chouhan highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj, which stresses the importance of infrastructural development in rural areas. He emphasized that rural development entails improving schools, panchayat buildings, community centers, and healthcare facilities. He pointed to historical initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), launched by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000, and its continued relevance under the current administration. The Jal Jeevan Mission, aimed at improving water supply in rural areas, was also cited as a significant effort in this direction.

Shri Chouhan praised the Aajeevika scheme for its success in empowering women through the Livelihood Mission. With 10 crore women involved across the country, he noted their transformative impact on both their lives and India's economy. He announced a new goal of increasing the number of ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from 1 crore to 3 crore, emphasizing ongoing efforts to provide essential facilities in villages.

Addressing the role of NIRDPR, Shri Chouhan stressed the need for further capacity building and training to support rural development. He urged postgraduate students at NIRDPR to contribute to these efforts.

During the event, two MoUs were signed with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, for a Ph.D. program, and with the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi. Additionally, an online course for Gram Rozgar Sevak (GRS) was launched.

Shri Chouhan also inaugurated a PMAY-G Model House at the Rural Technology Park (RTP), showcasing innovative construction techniques. The house, built at a cost of Rs. 4.04 lakh, features local materials and sustainable practices.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Union Ministers Kamlesh Paswan and Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, and other officials. Following the meeting, the dignitaries planted saplings at the RTP and visited the Mud Block making unit.