Representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions Meet Chief Minister

Shimla, April 22:
A delegation of representatives from the Panchayati Raj Institutions of Himachal Pradesh met Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today and expressed their gratitude for the significant step of doubling their honorarium over the past two years. They noted that this was the first time in the state’s history that such a substantial increase in compensation had been implemented for Panchayati Raj representatives. The delegation also submitted a list of demands, to which the Chief Minister assured a sympathetic and considered response.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized the vital role Panchayati Raj Institutions play in the development of rural areas. He recalled the visionary initiative of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who ensured 33% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions through the historic 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments. This progressive step, he noted, has empowered women and ensured their active participation in grassroots governance and state development.

The Chief Minister further stated that the current state government is committed to improving the lives of people living in rural areas and has launched several initiatives to this end. He highlighted the government’s decision to set minimum support prices of ₹90 per kilogram for turmeric, ₹60 for naturally grown wheat, and ₹40 for maize. Additionally, the government has increased the daily wage under MGNREGA by ₹80 over the past two years. He expressed confidence that these measures will strengthen the rural economy in the long term.

The Chief Minister also urged Panchayati Raj representatives to actively support the government’s campaign against drug abuse. He noted that the government is taking strict action against drug traffickers and called upon the representatives to share any relevant information with local authorities to help protect the youth from the menace of addiction.

Present at the meeting were Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLA Vivek Sharma, and other dignitaries.