Boosting Rajasthan: New Initiatives in Rural and Agricultural Development Unveiled

Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a crucial meeting with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, focusing on comprehensive rural and agricultural development. The Ministry released Rs 4,384 crore to Rajasthan under MGNREGA for 2023, ensuring employment generation through wages and material expenses.

Chouhan praised Rajasthan's execution of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), emphasizing more housing approvals post survey verifications. Ongoing projects aim to build 7.46 lakh houses. Discussions extended to the National Rural Livelihoods Mission and agricultural schemes like 'Per Drop More Crop' under PMKSY.

Rajasthan aims to enhance agricultural systems with resources for rainwater harvesting and interstate trade. Initiatives to notify superior peanut varieties and promote the state's castor oil were also discussed. With favorable monsoon predictions, a prosperous harvest in 2025 is anticipated. High-level officials, including Minister of State Bhagirath Choudhary, attended.

(With inputs from agencies.)