Gandhinagar, September 1: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel addressed newly elected representatives from the Panchayat system on Tuesday. He urged them to listen attentively to the public’s issues, understand the relevant regulations, and ensure that development projects are sustainable and of high quality.
He stated, “The trust of the people depends on how well local representatives meet their needs.” CM Patel spoke at a one-day ‘Panchayat Sanskar Workshop’ held at the Gujarat Assembly Secretariat, attended by Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary and 188 Panchayat officials, including 70 women representatives.
Drawing from his public service experience since 1995, CM Patel emphasized the importance of giving citizens adequate time and listening to their concerns instead of merely directing them to government officials. He advised representatives to understand the issues, familiarize themselves with applicable rules, and discuss matters with relevant authorities to find solutions.
He stressed that there should be no compromise on quality in development works such as roads, schools, and Panchayat buildings. “Sustainable and well-implemented projects help build trust between the government and its elected representatives,” he added.
Patel noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, there is no shortage of funds for development projects from villages to the state level. With proper planning, understanding of regulations, and commitment to work, the government will ensure the necessary funds for development.
The Chief Minister also urged Panchayat representatives to ensure that welfare schemes reach those who genuinely need them. Referring to initiatives like ‘Nal Se Jal’ and the ‘Housing Scheme,’ he stated that essential public works should continue regardless of changes in elected representatives or political parties.
He remarked, “Basic amenities like water and housing should not be halted, even if there are ongoing investigations into irregularities or errors in a project or contract.”
CM Bhupendra Patel highlighted that the central and state governments’ ‘poor-friendly policies’ have helped over 250 million people rise out of poverty, and they remain committed to providing food, education, healthcare, and housing.
He mentioned that assistance is also available for those needing help in purchasing land for homes. Speaker Shankar Chaudhary emphasized that elected representatives should continue learning after taking office and work within the framework of regulations for the public good.
He stressed, “Greater public awareness and understanding of rights and duties will further strengthen the Panchayati Raj system.” Chaudhary called for a constructive dialogue environment at the district and taluka Panchayat levels, similar to that in Parliament and state assemblies.
He noted that improved communication among citizens, government employees, and administrative officials could accelerate development projects. “The purpose of government regulations and circulars is to simplify services for citizens and ensure transparency, not to delay development. Therefore, administrative hurdles should be addressed appropriately,” he added.
Rural Development Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya called for efforts to create a developed nation through prosperous villages. He stated that the government is working to accelerate rural development and strengthen local self-governing institutions.
Bavaliya explained that while Gram Panchayats previously had limited funds for development projects, funds are now directly deposited into beneficiaries’ and Panchayats’ bank accounts under various development schemes.
He noted, “Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, over 4.5 million individual toilets have been constructed in Gujarat, while more than 14,000 biogas plants have been installed under the Govardhan scheme.” He also mentioned the Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme and the Developed Bharat-Gi Ram Ji scheme aimed at enhancing basic amenities and employment opportunities in rural areas.
Discussing women’s economic empowerment, Bavaliya highlighted initiatives like Mission Mangalam and the Lakhpati Didi initiative. He stated, “Women associated with self-help groups are being supported through interest-free loans, opportunities to sell their products at village haats, and running canteens at government offices and bus stands. Initiatives like Drone Didi and skill-based training are also being used to connect women with modern technology and new employment opportunities.”
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