Assam Model Village Scheme cuts a sorry figure

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The Assam Model Village Scheme launched in 2018-19 with the completion target of three years has cut a sorry figure.

The progress for the conversion of the 250 chosen villages into model villages is very tardy. The progress is nil in many villages, below 30 per cent in some others and 100 per cent in a few.

The scheme began in fiscal 2018-19 with an initial allocation of Rs 50 lakh in each village. It is a three-year scheme, with a spending of Rs 5 crore in each of the 250 chosen villages. Due to official lacunae or lack of will, the progress of the scheme is dismal. Till August this year, the progress of around 46 villages was zero and just 30 per cent in 60 villages. In 15 villages, progress was 100 per cent, and in 15 other villages over, 80 per cent of the allocated funds got used. According to official data, some villages are still at the stage of submitting their proposals. Many of the villages have no records of progress.

The essence of the scheme is to convert select villages into model villages through the development of roads, drains, sanitary facilities, healthcare facilities, regular power supply, supply of potable water etc., to boost the socio-economic condition of the residents.

The villages with zero progress under the scheme are two in Baithalangshu and Dhubri; five in Gauripur, Golokganj and Bilasipara; five in Gossaigaon and Kokrajhar; 15 in Kamrup; and seven in Udalguri, etc.

The government should give desired shapes to its schemes. When a scheme suffers a setback, the government must pinpoint the ailment and bring it back on track. Completion of this scheme will help boost the living standard in the 250 villages. It is the prime duty of every government.

Also Read: Assam: Tea Party At Bokajan Kills 8-Year-Old, 50 Others Hospitalized

Also watch: