Published on: March 28, 2025
By: [BTI]
Location: Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh
Women’s Leadership Strengthens Panchayati Raj in Chhattisgarh
Rajnandgaon, March 26, 2025 – In a remarkable display of women’s empowerment, 80% of the elected Panch and Sarpanch positions in Rajnandgaon district have been secured by women. The newly elected representatives were honored in a special event at Padma Shri Govindram Nirmalkar Auditorium, attended by Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma.
Dr. Singh commended the district’s high voter turnout of 87.76%, highlighting it as a testament to strong public awareness. He emphasized the pivotal role of women in reducing malnutrition in the region and their increasing participation in governance.
Key Highlights from the Event
- 80% of Panch and Sarpanch positions in Rajnandgaon secured by women.
- Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh and Deputy CM Vijay Sharma addressed the event.
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) construction efforts praised, with 18 lakh homes sanctioned.
- Panchayat representatives urged to focus on social welfare initiatives like nutrition, education, and healthcare.
- Outstanding officials and beneficiaries honored for their contributions.
Assembly Speaker Stresses Women’s Role in Governance
Dr. Raman Singh expressed his appreciation for Rajnandgaon’s progress, stating:
He also urged elected representatives to actively support infrastructure development, nutritional programs, and education in their constituencies.
Deputy CM Emphasizes Social Development
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma congratulated the newly elected members and outlined key focus areas for panchayats:
- Infrastructure projects must be balanced with social initiatives.
- Employment-oriented skill development programs should be prioritized.
- Rural industries must be promoted to boost the local economy.
- Eligible beneficiaries should be enrolled for ration cards and Ayushman Bharat health cards.
Progress in Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
Dr. Singh also provided updates on PMAY’s implementation:
- 18 lakh houses approved under PMAY in Chhattisgarh.
- 34,700 houses completed in 2024-25, surpassing previous years.
- Survey ongoing to include more eligible families under the scheme.
- Special efforts being made to ensure 100% inclusion of rural beneficiaries.
Officials were instructed to prioritize quality construction and ensure timely completion of projects.
Recognizing Excellence in Governance
Several officials and beneficiaries were honored for their outstanding contributions. Awards were given to:
- Best performing Panchayat representatives from each district.
- PMAY beneficiaries who completed their houses ahead of schedule.
- Cluster nodal officers and TB-free village Panchayats for their achievements.
Additionally, the “Pushtik Aahar Guide” booklet was launched, providing guidelines for nutrition programs aimed at eradicating malnutrition in rural areas.
Future Goals for Chhattisgarh’s Panchayati Raj
With a strong focus on women’s leadership, infrastructure, and social development, Chhattisgarh aims to:
- Establish itself among the top three states in India by 2047.
- Enhance rural employment through skill-based training programs.
- Achieve 100% malnutrition eradication by strengthening local initiatives.
- Expand water conservation efforts for sustainable development.
FAQ
What percentage of elected representatives in Rajnandgaon are women?
80% of the newly elected Panch and Sarpanch positions in Rajnandgaon are held by women, marking a significant step in women’s empowerment.
What is the voter turnout in Rajnandgaon for Panchayat elections?
The voter turnout was 87.76%, reflecting high public awareness and participation in the democratic process.
How many houses have been approved under PMAY in Chhattisgarh?
A total of 18 lakh houses have been approved under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in Chhattisgarh.
What is the focus of the new Panchayat representatives?
Elected members have been urged to focus on infrastructure development, women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, and employment generation.
