Chandigarh: Punjab’s social justice, empowerment and minorities minister Baljit Kaur on Sunday said the Punjab govt had launched a major initiative to develop 3,763 Scheduled Caste-majority villages across the state as “model villages”.The initiative aims to strengthen rural infrastructure, provide better civic amenities and ensure the benefits of development reach every section of society, she said in a written statement.“The department of social justice, empowerment and minorities has released Rs 201 crore to deputy commissioners across the state. The funds will be utilised to accelerate infrastructure development works in villages having 40% or more SC population. Additional funds will be released in a phased manner, as required, to ensure the comprehensive development of all the identified 3,763 villages,” the minister stated.She added, “The funds will be utilised for important development works, including solid and liquid waste management systems, installation of solar street lights, strengthening of anganwadi centres and creation of toilets in the identified villages. These initiatives will help improve cleanliness, environmental conditions, public safety and essential civic amenities in rural areas.”The minister stated that “the release of Rs 201 crore marks the first phase of the ambitious development programme”.
