Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, conducted a comprehensive review of rural development initiatives undertaken by the Central Government in Tamil Nadu during his visit to Chennai. Highlighting Tamil Nadu's rich historical and cultural heritage, Chouhan emphasized the remarkable progress achieved under schemes such as MGNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and the Women Empowerment Scheme.
In the financial year 2023-24, under the MGNREGA scheme, the Central Government disbursed wages amounting to Rs 12,603 crore to labourers in Tamil Nadu. This fiscal year alone, Rs 7,220 crore has already been allocated, ensuring continuous employment for the rural workforce. Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Tamil Nadu has received 10,352 roads and 214 bridges. Of these, 9,681 roads and 150 bridges have been completed, while work on 671 roads is progressing as planned.
Chouhan also outlined the ambitious housing targets under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. With a goal to construct 8,15,771 houses in the state, 7,47,542 houses have been sanctioned, and the first instalment for 7,33,359 has been disbursed. Impressively, 6,31,512 houses have already been completed. Chouhan urged the Tamil Nadu Government to expedite the completion of the remaining houses. Furthermore, for the financial year, Central Government has proposed an additional 1,42,059 houses for the state, ensuring rapid progress with initial funding.
Union Minister also spotlighted the Women Empowerment Scheme under the Livelihood Mission, which has transformed lives by fostering self-help groups. The initiative aims to create three crore “Lakhpati Didis,” empowering women to earn over Rs 1 lakh annually. Tamil Nadu has been an active participant, with approximately 10 lakh women achieving this milestone.
Concluding his visit, Chouhan reaffirmed the Central Government’s unwavering support for Tamil Nadu, urging the state administration to accelerate the implementation of these welfare schemes for the betterment of its people.
He expressed confidence that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Tamil Nadu would achieve remarkable milestones in rural development.
