Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)
The Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP), a new initiative aimed at improving the performance of blocks within districts lagging in various development parameters, is set to be launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7 January. The ABP was announced by Finance Minister Nirmal Sitharaman in her 2022-23 Budget speech as an extension of the Aspirational District Programme. The launch of the ABP will take place during the concluding session of the second National Conference of Chief Secretaries, with the program’s introduction expected to be given by NITI Aayog CEO Parmeswaran Iyer.
Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)
The ABP is expected to be introduced by NITI Aayog CEO Parmeswaran Iyer during the conference. Under the program, 500 blocks across states have been identified for quarterly ranking based on their performance in sectors such as health, education, and nutrition. The states and NITI Aayog will work together to establish ranking indicators, with the private sector also able to contribute to the development of these blocks. The first ranking is set to be released in April 2022.
Identification of Blocks
The 500 blocks identified for the ABP were chosen based on the recommendations of a four-member committee established by the government in the previous year. These blocks were selected due to their continued lag in development compared to the rest of the districts in which they are located.
Growth and Job Creation
The three-day conference, which began on 5 January, will also cover discussions on issues such as growth and job creation, the lessons learned from the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), global geopolitical challenges and India’s response, and inclusive human development.
The ABP aims to improve the quality of life for citizens in the most backward blocks of the country through targeted development initiatives. The program builds on the success of the Aspirational District Programme, which has already seen 95% of the 112 targeted districts make significant progress in sectors including health, nutrition, financial inclusion, and basic infrastructure. The launch of the ABP and the address by Prime Minister Modi are the final items on the conference’s agenda.
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Month: Current Affairs - January, 2023
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs