Chandigarh, Jan 24 - In a commitment to fostering uniform development across the state, Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Manohar Lal today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a total of 153 projects valued at Rs 2024 crore at a state-level function conducted through video conferencing at Lala Lajpat Rai Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in Hisar district. The development initiatives comprise the inauguration of 76 projects, collectively costing Rs 686 crore and the foundation stone laying for 77 projects with a combined value of Rs 1338 crore.
In a symbolic gesture, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 10 major projects, amounting to Rs 784 crore. The remaining of the projects saw inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremonies carried out by Union Ministers, Haryana Cabinet Ministers, MPs, and MLAs in various districts. The Chief Minister also inaugurated the administrative building and Embryo Transplant Lab for animal breed improvement at Lala Lajpat Rai Veterinary and Animal Sciences University.
He said that the economic vitality of any state or country hinges on robust infrastructure, and our government continuously strengthening the infrastructure in the state, contributing to the overall economic health. The Chief Minister highlighted that prior to this occasion, development projects have been initiated and foundation stones laid seven times across the entire state via digital platforms, resulting in the dedication of 1459 projects with an approximate value of Rs 15500 crores to the public. Today marks the eighth such program, reinforcing the commitment to continuous progress and development.
A new era begins from January 22, 2024
Sh Manohar Lal said that, in addition to physical development, our government places significant emphasis on cultural and social development. He highlighted the historic significance of January 22, a day when Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi presided over the grand consecration program of the Ram Temple. The Chief Minister noted the widespread joy and happiness that permeated the entire nation on that momentous day.
He further shared that preceding the consecration, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi observed an 11-day fast, a testament to his spiritual strength. This extraordinary undertaking set the stage for a new era that commenced on January 22, infusing fresh energy and enthusiasm among the people. We will move forward with new hopes and happiness.
The opposition's statement on unemployment is only political propaganda
Taking a dig at statements being made by the opposition regarding unemployment, Sh Manohar Lal dismissed their claims, stating that figures ranging from 9 percent to 35 percent are being inaccurately cited. He clarified that the actual self-declared unemployment rate on family identity cards is about 8.5 percent, discrediting the opposition's assertions of up to 34 percent as mere political propaganda.
Highlighting the state's progress in terms of ease of doing business, Sh Manohar Lal underscored that Haryana has become a preferred destination for investment. Over the past nine and a half years, the government has successfully provided employment opportunities to 30 lakh people. Additionally, efforts have been made to facilitate self-employment by making loans available to individuals through banks.
Ensured uniform development across the state
Sh Manohar Lal reflected on the commitment made in 2014 to ensure comprehensive development, encapsulated in the vision of "Haryana Ek – Haryanvi Ek." This vision aimed at equitable development across all districts and areas, tailored to the specific needs and demands of each region. The government has diligently worked on projects based on demand and mapping, exemplified by the establishment of one college within a 20-kilometer radius, resulting in the opening of 70 new colleges without any demand. Not only this, now state government will provide sports facilities on the basis of sports interests. As of now, there are 307 villages where there are no sports facilities within a radius of 10 kilometers. Work will start in such areas this year.
He also highlighted the government's systemic changes to combat corruption, particularly in recruitment and transfer processes, leading to increased transparency. The government has streamlined processes to ensure that citizens now enjoy the benefits of various schemes and facilities at their doorstep, marking a significant shift in governance.
Over the past 9.5 years, 40,000-Kilometer Road Network established
The Chief Minister said that in earlier governments there was regionalism and development work was done in specific areas. Whereas our government has ensured equal development in all sectors. Over the past 9.5 years, substantial progress has been made in enhancing the state's infrastructure, with the improvement of 33,000 km of existing roads and the construction of approximately 7,000 km of new roads. Currently, every district in the state is seamlessly connected to the National Highway network. Apart from this, Haryana's own airport is being built in Hisar. Now there is a huge demand for setting up industries around it. The construction of the airport will lead to all-round development of this area.
The Chief Minister highlighted the significant infrastructure projects underway in Haryana, including the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor spanning 72 km and the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor extending 506 km. These corridors are poised to bring substantial benefits to the state. Additionally, the construction of the Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor, in conjunction with the KMP (Kundli-Manesar-Palwal) project, is in progress. Furthermore, the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) rail line is being established from Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Karnal, promising improved connectivity. The completion of these initiatives is anticipated to yield considerable advantages for the residents of the region. Notably, a Rail Coach Factory, spread over 161 acres in Sonipat, will manufacture new coaches for the Metro Rail. He said that wherever RoB-RuB is not available on National Highway, State Highway and district roads in the state, RoB-RuB will soon be constructed. Approval for this has been received from the Railway Ministry.
The Chief Minister highlighted the transformative efforts in the healthcare sector, adding that in 2014, there were only 6 medical colleges with 700 MBBS seats. However, due to the persistent efforts of the current government, the number of medical colleges is on track to reach 26, significantly increasing the available MBBS seats to 3500.
Moreover, the Chief Minister emphasized that the double-engine government is not solely focused on infrastructure but is also actively engaged in bringing about positive changes in the social sector and enhancing the overall ease of living. This multifaceted approach is aimed at ensuring the happiness and well-being of society at large.
Commitment to Farmers: our government introduces new schemes for Agricultural Welfare - Animal Husbandry Minister JP Dalal
During the event, Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Animal Husbandry Minister Sh JP Dalal expressed that Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal consistently strives to achieve Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi's vision of augmenting farmers' income.
Sh JP Dalal highlighted the crucial role of the animal husbandry sector in elevating farmers' income. Despite consistently ranking first or second in per capita milk production, there is a collective effort to further improve this standing. Drawing from a recent delegation's visit to Brazil, the Minister pointed out the substantial difference in milk yield, with Gir cows in Brazil producing about 65 liters compared to the 35 liters in Haryana. Efforts were also started by the scientists of this university for animal breed improvement.
Sh JP Dalal emphasized the Chief Minister's dedicated focus on cow welfare, citing a substantial increase in the budget for the Gau Sewa Aayog. The budget has been augmented from Rs 40 crore to Rs 400 crore, reflecting a tenfold increase. The government's primary objective is to eliminate abandoned animals on the roads by implementing measures such as tagging and providing proper care. He further highlighted the state's proactive approach in safeguarding animals from foot-and-mouth disease. Haryana pioneered the creation of a single vaccine for this disease, successfully eradicating it from the state. After that the Prime Minister has implemented this vaccine of Haryana in the entire country.
He also highlighted the Chief Minister's efforts in facilitating financial support for small farmers. Through the Kisan Credit Card initiative, around Rs 1500 crore has been extended to small farmers at a nominal interest rate of 4 percent. This initiative has not only provided crucial capital to farmers but has also helped liberate them from the clutches of moneylenders. Additionally, Sh Dalal mentioned the Animal Insurance Scheme, where animals can be insured for just Rs 100. Under this scheme, cattle farmers have received claims totaling Rs 60 crore, providing a safety net for them. He said that there is no better trade than animal husbandry in providing employment in villages.
Urban Local Bodies Minister Dr. Kamal Gupta, MP Mr. Brijendra Singh, MLA Mr. Jogiram Sihag, Vice Chancellor of Lala Lajpat Rai Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Mr. Vinod Verma, district administration officials and distinguished guests were present in the ceremony.