Patiala, 26 June (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday called upon Sarpanches to rise above groupism and work sincerely for the comprehensive development of villages. Addressing a Sarpanch Milni in Patiala, the Chief Minister announced that Sarpanches across the state would receive an honorarium of ₹10,000 per month from August 15.

CM Mann said Panchayats are the foundation of democracy as they work at the grassroots level and their decisions directly impact village life. He said around 70 percent of the country’s population lives in villages, making Panchayati Raj Institutions a vital pillar of democratic governance.

The Chief Minister said the state government frames pro-people and development-oriented policies, while Sarpanches and Panches play a crucial role in implementing these schemes on the ground. He urged the elected representatives to rededicate themselves to the development of their villages and ensure that people get the maximum benefit of government initiatives.

Making the major announcement, CM Mann said previous governments had promised an honorarium of ₹1,200 to Sarpanches, but that decision was never implemented properly. He said his government first started giving ₹2,000 per month and has now decided to increase it to ₹10,000 per month from August 15.

The Chief Minister said the government is issuing grants for important development works under the direct supervision of Panchayats. He asked Sarpanches to ensure proper monitoring of these works and transparent utilization of every penny of public money. He said taxpayer money must be spent honestly and for the benefit of all sections of society.

CM Mann also appealed to Sarpanches to stay away from undue interference and groupism. He said once elected, a Sarpanch belongs to the entire village and must treat every resident equally. He added that village development often suffers when politics and groupism dominate local issues.

The Chief Minister urged Sarpanches to give priority to making villages drug-free, clean, green and pollution-free. He said they should also work to strengthen communal harmony, peace and brotherhood in rural areas.

Assuring full support from the government, CM Mann said there is no shortage of funds for village development. He asked Sarpanches to prepare priority lists of works so that the government can start them at the earliest.

He said libraries, schools, solar lights and village streets should be given priority to ensure holistic development. CM Mann said Sarpanches act as a bridge between the government and villages, and their proactive role is essential for building a Rangla Punjab.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH