MP Seechewal Urges Centre to Release Stalled Rs 8,000 Crore for Punjab's Rural Development
During a heated discussion on the rural development ministry's budget in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, MP Balbir Singh Seechewal brought to light a critical issue affecting Punjab's progress. He revealed that a substantial sum of Rs 8,000 crore, earmarked for the state's rural development, is currently stuck with the central government, causing significant delays in essential projects.
Stalled PMGSY Projects and Tender Delays
Seechewal detailed that under Phase III of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), projects worth approximately Rs 828 crore have been approved for Punjab. These initiatives include the construction of 64 roads and 38 bridges, which are vital for improving connectivity in rural areas. However, he pointed out that roads and bridges planned using FDR technology have been entangled in the tendering process for the past six to seven months, with work yet to commence.
The MP made a fervent appeal to the central government to immediately release the pending funds, emphasizing that withholding these resources is effectively punishing the people of Punjab. He stressed that farmers and labourers in rural regions are the most affected, as stalled development works hinder their livelihoods and access to basic amenities.
Support Sought for Distressed Potato Growers
In addition to the funding issue, Seechewal highlighted the severe distress faced by potato growers in Punjab due to a sharp decline in prices. He urged the central government to take prompt action to support these farmers, ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce to alleviate their financial struggles.
This appeal underscores the broader challenges in rural Punjab, where delayed funds and market fluctuations are impacting both infrastructure and agriculture. The MP's statements in Parliament call for urgent intervention to resume development and provide relief to the state's rural population.
