Shinde directs strict water planning, unveils integrated rural development plan

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has unveiled an integrated village development model aimed at transforming rural Maharashtra through a coordinated approach toward agriculture, water conservation, and public health. This integrated approach coordinates agriculture, water, health, and shelter to accelerate rural progress, he added.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has unveiled an integrated village development model aimed at transforming rural Maharashtra through a coordinated approach toward agriculture, water conservation, and public health. Chairing a Kharif season review meeting at the Thane district collectorate on Monday, Shinde directed the administration to set a target of making 100 lakes in the district silt-free. He emphasised the effective implementation of the ''Galmukt Dharan, Galyukt Shivar'' (silt-free dams, silted farms) scheme to boost water storage capacity and soil fertility, according to an official release. ''The objective is to increase water storage by deepening and widening dams, allowing for the cultivation of vegetables and cash crops even in summer. We must leverage the support of social organisations like the Naam Foundation, Jaltara Foundation, and CSR funds from bodies like MCHI to provide the necessary machinery for desilting works,'' he said. Shinde also urged the agriculture department to promote toxic-free farming by reducing chemical fertiliser use in favour of organic and natural methods. In view of the El Niño impact and a projected 92 per cent rainfall, Shinde issued instructions for strict water planning. He announced an HPV vaccination campaign for women under the ''My Village, Arogya Sampan Gaon '' initiative. Additionally, Shinde highlighted a landmark decision to regularise rural houses up to 1,500 square feet, with a total fee waiver for houses under 500 square feet. ''This integrated approach coordinates agriculture, water, health, and shelter to accelerate rural progress,'' he added.