Indri/Karnal, August 17: Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, stated that a Sarpanch acts as the village's representative, and villagers harbor high expectations of their elected leaders. Sarpanches must meet these expectations by spearheading as much development work as possible for their villages. He noted that while the government is fully active, public participation in development initiatives is equally crucial; everyone must work together to fulfill the villagers' aspirations.
The Union Minister was addressing a meeting of Sarpanches held at the Panchayat Samiti office in Indri on Sunday. During the meeting, he interacted directly with the Sarpanches to gather information on village issues and development projects, subsequently issuing necessary directives to officials. He recalled his tenure of nine and a half years serving the state, noting that numerous development projects were announced and none were allowed to stall. He assured that development works would continue to be prioritized; key projects would be completed first, followed by other tasks in a phased manner.
**Libraries in every Panchayat to provide a better study environment for children**
Shri Manohar Lal emphasized the need for a library in every Panchayat. A library serves as a space where children can study after school hours. Since job opportunities today are based on merit, it is essential to provide children with a conducive environment to prepare for competitive exams and other subjects. He remarked that libraries are just as important as schools. In villages where space for a library is unavailable, Sarpanches should consult with villagers to arrange for a suitable location.
**Ensure basic amenities in schools**
The Union Minister stated that basic amenities must be available in every village. He directed that all necessary facilities—such as adequate classrooms, boundary walls, furniture, and toilets—be ensured in schools. Schools facing a shortage of furniture will have their requirements met on a priority basis in the coming months.
He also called for extensive tree plantation within village 'Shivdhams' (cremation grounds) and school premises. He stated that youth should be encouraged to participate in tree plantation drives under the guidance of Sarpanchs. He emphasized planting the maximum number of saplings under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in Mother’s Name) campaign and ensuring their proper care.
**Emphasis on Paving Village Perimeter Roads and Installing Streetlights**
Shri Manohar Lal directed that the work of paving village perimeter roads (*phirnis*) and installing streetlights along them be prioritized. He stated that every village must have a *Gram Sachivalaya* (Village Secretariat) and that a suitable meeting space for the Panchayat must be ensured. In villages where such a meeting space is unavailable, Sarpanchs should promptly prepare a plan and take the necessary action.
**Gymnasiums in Every Panchayat**
The Union Minister directed that *Yogashalas* (yoga centers) and gymnasiums be constructed in every Panchayat, with yoga sheds set up as needed. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought international recognition to yoga. Through these facilities, the youth in villages will be engaged in yoga, physical exercise, and sports activities. Wellness centers will also be developed at these locations in the future.
**Focus on Quality and Maintenance of Development Works**
Shri Manohar Lal remarked that development projects are completed faster when Sarpanchs work proactively. He stated that merely executing a project is not enough; ensuring the maintenance of completed works is equally important. He instructed every Sarpanch to assign a person to inspect village development works and maintain regular inspection reports to guarantee quality and proper upkeep. He urged Sarpanchs to accelerate development by coordinating with villagers and working alongside the administration to set priorities based on the village's specific needs.
The meeting was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Bhatia, MLA and Government Chief Whip Ramkumar Kashyap, BJP District President Praveen Lathar, MP representative Kavindra Rana, Sarpanch Association President Pratap Singh, and Vice-President Shashi Kamboj. Representatives from the administration included Deputy Commissioner Dr. Anand Kumar Sharma, SDM Dr. Raman Gupta, CEO Zila Parishad Amit Kumar, DDPO Kanchan Lata, and BDPO Gurumalak Singh, along with officials from other departments and Sarpanchs from the Indri block.