PMAAGY Scheme Stalls in Tumakuru Villages
Development in villages selected under the Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY) in Tumakuru district remains largely on paper, with essential facilities yet to be provided. The scheme aims to deliver infrastructure such as classrooms in government schools, compound walls, toilets, cement concrete (CC) roads, streetlight maintenance, drinking water units, and drainage systems. However, progress has been negligible, leaving residents frustrated.
Funds Allocated, Work Not Done
According to officials, funds were released for multiple villages under the PMAAGY scheme, but actual construction has not started in many locations. A senior official from the Tumakuru Zilla Panchayat stated, "Funds have been allocated, but the work order is yet to be issued for several projects. We are monitoring the situation." The delay has led to criticism from local leaders and residents, who say promises remain unfulfilled.
Impact on Education and Daily Life
In at least 15 villages, government schools lack basic amenities like classrooms and toilets, forcing students to study in dilapidated buildings. Villagers in Hebbur and Kyathasandra reported that CC roads are either partially built or non-existent, causing waterlogging during rains. Drinking water units remain non-functional in several hamlets, with residents relying on borewells that often dry up. A local farmer, Ramesh, said, "We were told the scheme would bring proper roads and water supply, but nothing has changed in two years."
Administrative Hurdles Blamed
District officials attribute the delay to administrative bottlenecks, including delays in tendering and contractor availability. The Tumakuru Deputy Commissioner admitted, "There have been procedural delays, but we are expediting the process. A review meeting is scheduled next week." However, critics argue that lack of political will and poor monitoring are the real reasons. The state government has not yet issued a statement on the matter.
Residents Demand Action
Village panchayat members have submitted memorandums to the district administration, demanding immediate action. A panchayat president from one of the affected villages said, "We have repeatedly raised the issue, but there is no response. The scheme is meant to transform villages, but it is failing here." The PMAAGY, launched in 2014-15, aims to develop model villages with comprehensive infrastructure, but its implementation in Tumakuru has been lackluster.
