Union Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited his parliamentary constituency, Vidisha, and chaired the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting in Raisen. The meeting focused on key public welfare issues such as substance abuse prevention, black marketing of seeds and fertilizers, counterfeit agro-inputs, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ campaign, water infrastructure, and energy projects.
During a review of agricultural schemes, the Minister emphasized that those involved in selling adulterated or fake fertilizers must face strict legal action, as it is a grave injustice to farmers. He also reviewed the procurement status of moong (green gram) and directed officials to inspect procurement centers regularly.
Shri Chouhan urged public representatives and officials to make Raisen a model district for development. He stressed the importance of including all eligible beneficiaries under government schemes and instructed that all construction projects be closely monitored and completed on time.
PM Awas Yojana: Timely Release of Installments:
While reviewing the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) - Awas Plus scheme, the Minister directed that all beneficiaries should receive their installments without any delay. In FY 2024–25, a total of 27,981 houses have been sanctioned across all Gram Panchayats in Raisen district, of which 4,825 have been completed and 23,156 are under construction.
Boost to ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Campaign: Highlighting the importance of empowering women, Shri Chouhan reviewed the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ campaign under the National Rural Livelihood Mission. Currently, 43,613 Lakhpati Didis (women entrepreneurs) are active in the district. The Minister called for extending the initiative to more women.
Better Road Connectivity for Every Village: Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, he directed that every village should be connected to major roads. In the FY 2024–25 plan, 30 road projects covering 276.236 km have been approved, of which 28 roads are complete. Out of 13 approved bridges, 9 have been constructed.
Agriculture Officers to Visit Fields: The Minister instructed agricultural officers to visit fields and guide farmers on the proper use of pesticides. He also emphasized timely preparations for the Rabi season and the need to educate farmers about avoiding banned chemicals in Basmati rice cultivation.
Timely Completion of Water and Energy Projects:
Reviewing the work of the Water Resources Department, Shri Chouhan laid special emphasis on the progress of the Jal Jeevan Mission, ensuring piped water reaches every household. He also instructed fast-tracking the completion of pending power substations and other energy-related infrastructure projects.
