Tripura govt strengthening Panchayat Raj system for sustainable development: CM Saha

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Friday said that the state government has given special importance to strengthen the Panchayati Raj system and is working with the aim of ensuring the sustainable development of every village in the coming days.

After inaugurating the state-level one-day programme on ceremonial distribution of 475 computers and awards to the best performers of the National Panchayat Awards, the Chief Minister said that the BJP government is working with the aim of taking every Panchayat in the state forward successfully in the coming days.

He said that the government is committed to strengthening the infrastructure of the Panchayati Raj system, as well as advancing good governance and development.

Speaking about the Panchayat Development Index, Saha stated that Tripura has reached the highest level in three areas, which is not just an individual achievement but a collective honor earned through teamwork.

Distributing computers and giving prizes are not enough, the primary goal of the government is to strengthen the Panchayat system, he said. Saha said that this initiative has been undertaken to ensure continued success and progress in the future.

“We must work for the people and enhance the delivery system. Through innovative thinking, we must continue the trend of good governance and development,” he said.

Highlighting changes in the Panchayat system since 2018 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Chief Minister said that Modi is implementing various schemes and initiatives for the people.

“Prime Minister always said that since 70 to 75 per cent of the country is rural, the development of these areas is crucial for the overall strength of the nation. The state government is working with this vision in mind.”

The Chief Minister further stated that there are two and a half lakh Panchayats across the country.

“If any Panchayat from our state secures the top position at the national level, it will indicate that we are on the right track. Our recognition is a testament to our efforts. This achievement not only enhances our state’s progress but also contributes to the nation’s development. The Panchayat Devolution Index, conducted by the Central government every 8 to 10 years, previously ranked Tripura at 13th or 14th place before 2015. Now, we have improved to the 7th position. I urge public representatives present here to work with more innovative ideas for the development of their respective Panchayats,” he said.

Saha emphasised the need for initiatives to build ideal Panchayats through solar power, smart Panchayat formation, groundwater level enhancement, and proper disposal of solid and liquid waste.

"We have also received national-level awards for being a women-friendly and child-friendly Panchayat. Therefore, steps should be taken to make all Panchayats child-friendly and women-friendly," he added.