Mukhyamantri Gram Gaadi Yojna
In a significant development, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren recently chaired a meeting to introduce a new public transport scheme aimed at benefiting the rural population of the state. The scheme, titled ‘Mukhyamantri Gram Gaadi Yojna,’ is set to be proposed during an upcoming Cabinet meeting for swift approval. Let’s dive into the details of this ambitious plan.
Phase 1: 250 Buses to Connect Remote Areas
The ‘Mukhyamantri Gram Gaadi Yojna’ is set to kick off its first phase with a fleet of 250 buses. These buses will play a crucial role in connecting remote, tribal, and rural areas with the rest of the state. While an exact timeline for implementation is yet to be determined, Chief Minister Soren has expressed his commitment to presenting the scheme in the state Cabinet meeting soon.
Inclusivity and Free Access for All
- The idea for this initiative has been in the works since earlier this year.
- Its primary aim is to provide hassle-free commuting options for various groups within the state, including senior citizens, school and college students, differently-abled individuals, those living with HIV, widows, and all those who have contributed significantly to the state of Jharkhand.
- Importantly, this public transport system will offer free access to travel for these groups, according to official sources.
- The aim here is to strengthen the road transport and traffic system in rural and remote tribal areas of the state.
- The scheme seeks to connect rural areas with block, sub-division, and district headquarters so that people living in remote villages can access an efficient transportation system.
A Boon for Rural Residents
- This scheme promises to be a game-changer for people residing in remote areas. Over 70 percent of Jharkhand’s estimated population of four crore currently lives in rural areas.
- After receiving approval from the Cabinet, the process will begin to invite applications from operators interested in running the buses. Subsequently, work permits will be issued.
- However, whether this will happen before the state elections scheduled for November-December 2024 remains uncertain, as mentioned by Chief Minister Soren.
Strategic Route Planning
- The bus routes will strategically connect to public places such as hospitals, schools, colleges, weekly markets, local markets, and railway stations.
- To ensure ease of access, Chief Minister Soren announced the launch of a mobile-based application. This app will provide villagers with real-time information about bus locations, eliminating the need to wait for buses due to a lack of information.
Subsidies for Bus Operators
In an effort to incentivize participation, the ‘Mukhyamantri Gram Gaadi Yojna’ will offer subsidies to bus operators running on prescribed routes. However, it’s important to note that the implementation process may be time-consuming, as stated by official sources.
Month: Current Affairs - October, 2023
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs • India Nation & States Current Affairs