Haryana Cabinet Approves Waiver of Rural Household Water Charges

In a move aimed at alleviating financial burdens on rural households, the Haryana cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, greenlit the write-off of outstanding water charges, including surcharges and accrued interest, amounting to a substantial Rs 372.13 crore. This decision will benefit a significant 28.87 lakh water connection holders residing in the rural expanse across the state.

Waiver Exclusivity and Specifics

This comprehensive waiver, endorsed during the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Khattar, is explicitly directed at rural households and excludes institutional, commercial, or industrial consumers falling under the Public Health Engineering Department.

The waiver encompasses water charges due from April 1, 2015, until December 31, 2022, totaling Rs 336.35 crore. It is applicable to all consumer categories in villages and rural areas, including the general category and Scheduled Castes, ensuring broad coverage across diverse sections of society.

Eco-Tourism Policy Unveiled

Furthermore, the cabinet ratified a policy focused on fostering eco-tourism within the state. The initiative aims to leverage Haryana's diverse biodiversity, ecosystems, heritage sites, and cultural multiplicity.

This strategic policy framework emphasizes the conservation of Haryana's rich biodiversity, heritage, and traditional knowledge while promoting sustainable eco-tourism. It is designed to facilitate nature-based tourism, bolster the local economy, encourage the utilization of indigenous resources, and foster partnerships among communities, NGOs, academic institutions, private enterprises, and government bodies. The collaborative efforts are envisioned to propel holistic eco-tourism development, empowering local communities towards self-sufficiency.

Socio-Economic Support Initiatives

Additionally, the cabinet introduced amendments to the Chowkidar (Watchman) Rules, 2013, extending a one-time financial aid of Rs 2 lakh to retiring "Gramin Chowkidars" (watchmen).

Moreover, an affirmative scheme has been greenlit, earmarking monthly financial assistance for individuals grappling with rare diseases. Chief Minister Khattar had previously announced this welfare measure, acknowledging the mounting prevalence of rare diseases affecting families and communities within Haryana.

The comprehensive decisions taken during this cabinet meeting underscore the government's commitment to provide financial relief, promote sustainable initiatives, and address concerns among vulnerable segments of the populace in Haryana.