Gandhinagar, Jan 30 (NationPress) The government of Gujarat has unveiled a plan to construct independent Gram Panchayat buildings along with talati residences in 2,666 villages statewide, with a total investment of Rs 663 crore.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel performed a digital foundation-laying ceremony from Bhadaran village in the Anand district.

During his address, Patel emphasized that this initiative showcases the state's dedication to enhancing rural infrastructure in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for village-level progress under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

He highlighted the government's ambitious plan to ensure that every Gram Panchayat in Gujarat is equipped with its own Panchayat building, adhering to the Prime Minister's saturation approach for achieving 100% public infrastructure coverage.

“These buildings will facilitate easier access to government services for villagers at the local level,” stated the Chief Minister, adding that the new facilities will enhance administrative efficiency and service delivery in rural regions.

During the same event, Patel launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana’ across the state.

In its initial phase, 114 villages, which serve as taluka headquarters but lack municipalities, will be included.

As per the Chief Minister, these villages will receive urban-level amenities, including upgraded road infrastructure, water supply, sanitation systems, solar street lighting, e-Gram services, and community halls.

Patel noted that the government intends to expand the scheme in the upcoming years to encompass Gram Panchayats with populations exceeding 10,000.

“This initiative will help bridge the development divide between rural and urban areas, fostering balanced and inclusive growth,” he remarked, referring to the Prime Minister's motto of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas.

The Chief Minister also discussed water conservation efforts under the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign, which includes rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.

He mentioned that each MLA has been granted Rs 50 lakh specifically for creating local recharge infrastructure.

Patel urged the promotion of cow-based natural farming to enhance soil health and support sustainable agricultural practices.

Earlier in the day, he paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary, recognized as Martyrs’ Day, noting that Gandhiji’s idea of Gram Swaraj continues to motivate efforts toward establishing self-sufficient villages.

Panchayat and Housing Minister Rushikesh Patel remarked that the construction of 2,666 Gram Panchayat buildings throughout Gujarat will pave a new path for rural development.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Ramanbhai Solanki described this milestone as a crucial step toward delivering government services to the grassroots level.

Numerous ministers, MPs, MLAs, senior officials, and sarpanchs from various districts attended the event.