Shivraj Singh Chouhan Reviews Key Rural Development Initiatives in Vidisha; Strict Action Ordered on Fake Fertilisers

Raisen, July 27 : Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a high-level meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) during his visit to Vidisha parliamentary constituency, with focused discussions on welfare schemes, rural infrastructure, and agriculture sector reforms. The review meeting was held in Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh.

In the meeting, Minister Chouhan addressed several critical concerns, including black marketing and counterfeit fertilisers, deaddiction, housing under the PM Awas Yojana, rural road connectivity, and empowering rural women through the Lakhpati Didi initiative. He took stock of the progress on energy, water resources, and agricultural schemes and issued stern directives for improved implementation.

“Selling fake fertiliser is a grave sin – take strict action,” Chouhan declared, emphasizing that exploitation of farmers would not be tolerated. He asked officials to crack down on the sale of spurious agricultural inputs and to inspect procurement centres handling moong (green gram) in the district.

Chouhan further stressed timely completion of infrastructure projects and regular field visits by agriculture officers to guide farmers. He particularly directed agriculture officials to advise on disease control and prevent the use of banned pesticides, citing the recent rejection of local Basmati rice in international markets.

On the PM Awas Yojana (Gramin) front, the minister expressed concern over delays and urged for prompt installment disbursements and zero tolerance for negligence in construction quality. As per the district’s 2024–25 figures, 27,981 houses have been sanctioned, with 4,825 completed and the rest under progress.

“Focus on public welfare and development while working,” he urged officials and public representatives alike, instructing them to identify and include any remaining eligible beneficiaries across schemes.

Notably, Raisen district was reported to have an impressive 43,613 Lakhpati Didis, women who have earned over ₹1 lakh annually through livelihood programs. Chouhan called for concrete action plans to expand this initiative, aimed at economic empowerment of rural women.

In reviewing the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, he directed that every village be connected to main roads. Out of 30 sanctioned roads covering 276 km, 28 are complete, along with 9 out of 13 sanctioned bridges. National Highway works and electricity substation projects were also reviewed.

On the Jal Jeevan Mission, he reiterated that tap water must reach every rural household, and water reservoir projects must be expedited.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s visit underscored his hands-on approach to ensuring transparency, accountability, and speedy delivery of central government schemes in rural Madhya Pradesh.