Punjab Minister Dr. Balbir Singh Swears In Local Leaders, Stresses Grassroots Governance
In a significant ceremony held at Punjabi University in Patiala, Dr. Balbir Singh, the Punjab Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Medical Education, and Research, administered the oath of office to newly elected local representatives. The event marked the formal induction of 23 members of the Zila Parishad and 184 members from 10 Block Samitis in Patiala district, underscoring the state's commitment to decentralized governance.
Focus on Village Development and Public Service
Addressing the gathering in Punjabi, Dr. Balbir Singh extended his congratulations to the newly sworn-in members and issued a strong call to action. He urged them to actively engage with communities, ensure the effective implementation of government schemes at the grassroots level, and proactively address public grievances. Emphasizing unity beyond political lines, the minister stated that all members must prioritize the holistic development of villages, regardless of their affiliations.
Under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, Zila Parishad and Block Samiti members are empowered with control over 30% of development funds. Dr. Balbir Singh assured full governmental support for any proposals aimed at village advancement, highlighting the backing of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's administration.
Expansion of Health and Welfare Initiatives
The minister outlined several key initiatives to bolster public welfare in Punjab. In a move to advance the health revolution, the state government has decided to extend medical services to an additional 2,500 villages, with the selection process already finalized. This expansion will involve deploying doctors and supplying essential medicines to these areas.
Furthermore, Dr. Balbir Singh highlighted the success of the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana, which currently provides cashless treatment up to Rs 10 lakh to approximately 65 lakh families across the state. He also announced a new welfare measure: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has approved the distribution of sugar, turmeric, oil, and pulses alongside wheat to 40 lakh needy families, aimed at enhancing nutritional support.
Boosting Agricultural and Economic Self-Sufficiency
To support these distribution efforts and promote local production, the minister revealed plans to operationalize cooperative sugar mills within Punjab for domestic sugar production. Additionally, the state will focus on increasing the cultivation of pulses and oilseeds, aiming to reduce dependency on imports and strengthen the agricultural economy.
Presence of Dignitaries and Call for Public Awareness
The oath-taking ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including MLAs Chetan Singh Jauramajra, Gurdev Singh Dev Mann, and Gurlal Ghanour, along with Halka Sanaur In-charge Ranjodh Singh Hadana and ADC Rural Development Damanjit Singh Mann. These officials joined in urging the newly inducted members to prioritize spreading awareness about the government's achievements and schemes among the populace, ensuring transparency and public engagement.
This event reinforces Punjab's dedication to empowering local bodies and enhancing rural infrastructure, health access, and social welfare under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
