Crores in kitty, Patiala village to help youngsters crack civil services exam

Akrri, a nondescript village of Ghanaur block in Patiala, has decided to help youngsters crack civil services exam, irrespective of their caste, creed or gender.

The village panchayat, which has crores of funds in its kitty, will also ensure free de-addiction treatment for its residents.

The panchayat, whose members are below 40 years of age, has decided to ensure a drug-free village and provide additional facilities for anyone winning medals at any sporting event.

On Sunday, the panchayat met for the first time after the election and took several decisions in the presence of villagers.

Sarpanch Jaswinder Singh Akrri said, “We have seen how deserving candidates from the village could not pursue higher education and appear for civil services exam due to lack of resources. I proposed a resolution that anyone from the village who wants to crack the Union Public Service Commission or the Punjab Civil Services exams will be sponsored by the panchayat.”

The 38-year-old sarpanch said a villager cracking the civil services exam could inspire the others to follow suit. “The amount spent on youngsters will not be disbursed as loan but it will be a one-time investment so that they can continue to help fellow villagers after they get successful in life,” said Akrri.

The panchayat has also decided to “boycott anyone dealing in drugs inside the village”.

Panch Davinder Singh said, “We will get smugglers arrested. Also, any addict from the village will get financial aid to get treatment at government-sanctioned de-addiction centres.”

The villagers said several girl students were earlier hesitant to approach coaching institutes for preparation but the resolution passed by the newly elected panchayat would help the needy.

“Last year, six girls from the village had topped in various exams. Of them, five were from a poor background. Now, such bright students will be able to chase their dreams and compete in competitive exams,” said villagers.