Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviews development works in MP's Dewas, announces measures for farmers and women

Dewas, Aug 1 (AHN) Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday reviewed development works in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district and announced several measures to improve agriculture, rural development, irrigation, healthcare and employment.

Chairing a meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA), Union Minister Chouhan said a detailed agriculture plan had been prepared for Dewas to help increase farmers' income.

"We have prepared an agriculture roadmap after studying the district's soil, climate, water availability and local conditions. It will help improve farming and increase farmers' income," he added.

He said that the state government would promote better seeds, suitable crops, horticulture and food processing through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).

The Union Minister also said the state government has set a target of increasing the number of "Lakhpati Didis" in Dewas from around 35,000 to 72,000.

Women will be linked to self-help groups, given skill training and provided easier access to bank loans for self-employment.

The meeting also reviewed irrigation and drinking water projects, including the Chhipaner Lift Irrigation Scheme and the Maa Rewa Lift Irrigation Scheme.

Union Minister Chouhan said that work on one major irrigation project would begin soon after receiving forest clearance.

He also directed officials to look into delays in drinking water projects in the Khategaon area.

He said that villages would carry out development works under the Viksit Bharat—Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB—G RAM G) scheme based on the priorities decided by local people.

Union Minister Chouhan also announced a three-month drive to ensure that all eligible people, including those above 70 years of age, receive Ayushman Bharat health cards.

"We are committed to making Dewas TB-free and malnutrition-free. Special campaigns will be launched to provide treatment, nutrition support and ensure that every eligible person gets the benefits of government schemes," he said.

The Union Minister said that the state government would also focus on skill development and employment by providing training to youth and helping them get bank loans for self-employment.

The meeting was attended by public representatives and officials from different departments, who reviewed the progress of Central government schemes and other development projects in the district.