Minister orders inspection of unsafe panchayat bhawans

Minister of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Anirudh Singh today said that every sport must be played with spirit. He said this while addressing a gathering on the closing ceremony of Zonal-Level Thoda Sports Competition 2024, organised by Thoda Sports Federation at Government College, Nerwa under Chopal Legislative Assembly constituency of Shimla district. The competition featured participation from seven teams from the Chopal Thoda Zone and 16 teams from the Nerwa Zone.

While addressing the gathering, Singh said that the game of Thoda originated in Sipur and has historical significance. It was once popular in every princely state. However, its prevalence has diminished over time. He praised the current youth generation for reviving this traditional game, calling it a commendable effort.

During the event, the minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation of various panchayat bhawans in Nerwa with a total cost of Rs 2.64 crore. Singh highlighted concern over six to seven unsafe panchayat bhawans that require repairs or reconstruction. He instructed the Block Development Officer (BDO) to inspect these facilities so that budget provisions for repairs and new constructions can be arranged. He mentioned that last year, Rs 67 crore was spent on constructing panchayat bhawans, while Rs 47 crore has already been utilized in the current financial year.

The Minister also spoke about the steps being taken for women empowerment in the state to strengthen their economic status. He suggested that if land becomes available in Nerwa, a Him Ira Complex will be built to provide a marketplace for local women’s groups to sell their products. He mentioned that efforts are underway to market and sell products made by self-help groups.

Earlier, while addressing the people during the solar light distribution programme held in Khagna Panchayat under Chopal Legislative Assembly Constituency, the minister said that Chopal is the first Development Block to spend Rs 17.44 crore in the financial year 2024-25.

He also mentioned that in the previous financial year, 2,176 works were approved under the MGNREGA scheme, amounting to Rs 22.58 crore. Financial assistance for constructing new homes has been provided to 697 families under the housing scheme. He also presented 135 families with solar lights.