Gujarat Government Increases Travel Allowance for Village Workers Amid Rising Responsibilities

Gandhinagar, October 21 (Daily Kiran) : The Gujarat government has raised the monthly travel allowance for approximately 2,900 village workers from ₹1,850 to ₹2,700. This decision, made during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar, aims to address the increasing field responsibilities of these workers and the need to assist farmers in rural areas.

State government spokesperson and minister Jitu Vaghani announced the ₹850 increase in response to requests from village workers. These workers regularly visit four to five village councils within their designated areas, with some covering even more villages based on local needs.

Vaghani explained that their role is crucial in helping farmers benefit from government schemes and agricultural support programs, serving as a vital link between the state government and the farming community.

With the growing number of landowning farmers in the state, the responsibilities of village workers have expanded significantly. Their tasks now include conducting digital surveys via mobile applications to estimate crop areas and production, as well as completing e-KYC formalities under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.

Additionally, they survey agricultural fields and guide farmers during natural disasters or heavy rains. Village workers also assist in organizing agricultural festivals and fairs, while disseminating information about minimum support prices (MSP) and natural farming campaigns.

The government stated that this allowance increase is intended to enhance the efficiency of village workers in fulfilling their field duties. Vaghani added that their work spans multiple villages and involves regular communication with farmers to implement agricultural plans and programs.

This decision is expected to benefit around 2,900 village workers and facilitate the delivery of government assistance to farmers across Gujarat.