Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has called for greater transparency and self-reliance in the functioning of Gram Panchayats, emphasizing their vital role in the state’s holistic development. During a review meeting of the Panchayati Raj Department, he lauded the efforts of the state government and urged officials to further strengthen the Gram Panchayat system using modern technology.
Highlighting the Gram Secretariat initiative, the Chief Minister said, “The NITI Aayog has recognised the concept of Gram Secretariat as a model. All Panchayat Bhavans should now be referred to as Gram Secretariats. This marks a transformative step in redefining Panchayati Raj governance.”
Gram Panchayats: Pillars of Sustainable Development
The Chief Minister stressed that the self-reliance of Gram Panchayats is central to Uttar Pradesh’s sustainable growth. “All grassroots systems must be made robust, transparent, and technologically capable. The government is committed to this mission,” he added.
Gram Secretariats – A Revolutionary Step
CM Adityanath noted that Gram Secretariats have already been established in all 57,695 Gram Panchayats of the state. He directed that all payments related to the Panchayat Gateway Portal should be processed through computers installed at these secretariats to ensure accountability and transparency.
Emphasis on Digital Governance
The CM appreciated various digital initiatives such as state-level call centres, online attendance systems, geofencing of secretariats, and internet-based communication. He directed that all village assistants undergo a mandatory 15-day computer training program to improve their digital literacy. “These platforms should be fully utilized for real-time monitoring of Panchayat-level activities,” he said.
Conservation of Natural Resources and Cultural Heritage
The Chief Minister instructed that ponds be leased transparently for a period of 3 to 5 years, with the revenue used for village development. He emphasized coordination between the Panchayati Raj, Revenue, and Fisheries departments for proper pond allocation and maintenance.
He also directed that Amrit Sarovars (revived traditional ponds), tree plantations, and community programs be actively managed by Panchayats. Proper drainage systems must be installed to prevent wastewater from entering these water bodies.
Timely Desilting and Rainwater Harvesting
CM Yogi reiterated that ponds are not just water sources but carriers of rural culture. “Their desilting must be completed on time. Rainwater harvesting systems should be made mandatory at Gram Secretariats, Anganwadi centres, and primary schools,” he directed.
Rural Sanitation: A Priority
Emphasizing sanitation, the CM called for regular cleaning of community toilets and timely payment to sanitation workers. He noted that of 96,171 revenue villages in the state, 90,891 have been declared ODF Plus and urged officials to expedite efforts in the remaining ones. He also ordered strict enforcement of the ban on single-use plastic and timely completion of plastic waste management units — of which 89 out of 150 have been completed.
Progress Under Gobardhan Scheme
The CM reviewed the Gobardhan scheme and was informed that out of 75 districts, 73 already have 115 Gobardhan plants operational. The remaining 2 districts are expected to complete construction soon.
Integrated Plans for Ease of Living in Villages
He spoke about the state government’s Smart Village concept, which includes provisioning of Gram Secretariats, Common Service Centres (CSCs), PDS shops, Utsav Bhavans, PA systems, CCTV cameras, and solar street lights. “These amenities are significantly improving ease of living in rural areas,” he added.
Cremation Grounds in Appropriate Locations
CM Yogi also praised the Matrabhumi Yojana, which allows citizens to contribute to rural development projects. He suggested that cremation grounds be constructed at suitable locations to maximize community benefit.
The meeting concluded with directives to implement all projects in a time-bound and transparent manner, keeping in focus the goal of transforming rural Uttar Pradesh into a model of sustainable, inclusive growth.
