Jaipur, January 23 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma chaired a pre-budget discussion with representatives from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), civil society groups, and consumer forums on Wednesday, commending their contributions to fostering a strong and prosperous society.
“NGOs, civil society groups, and consumer forums play a pivotal role in creating a strong and prosperous society. Their work significantly impacts the community by ensuring government schemes reach the people effectively,” the CM stated.
Sharing details about the meeting on X, the CM’s official account posted: “Today, a constructive dialogue was held with representatives of NGOs, civil society institutions, and consumer forums at the Chief Minister’s Office to discuss the proposed budget for Rajasthan for the financial year 2025-26.”
Inclusive Budget for All
In a statement released by the state government, the Chief Minister emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of all sections of society through the budget. He assured that valuable suggestions from stakeholders would be incorporated wherever possible, aligning with the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
Highlighting the government’s focus on inclusive development, the CM mentioned the principles of Antyodaya as envisioned by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He reiterated the goal of ensuring that those most marginalized benefit from government initiatives and join the mainstream of society.
Key Government Initiatives
The Chief Minister elaborated on various developmental measures, particularly in rural areas:
– MGNREGA Expansion: Employment under MGNREGA increased from 20 crore person-days to 27 crore. Over 24 crore person-days of work have already been provided, with payments to workers being processed within 15 days.
– Women Empowerment: Under the *Rajeevika* program, over 20,000 self-help groups have been established, and more than 14 lakh women have received skill training through the *Lakhpati Didi Yojana.* The government is also aiding in the sale of products crafted by women linked to these self-help groups.
Stakeholder Suggestions
During the meeting, representatives from various organizations shared recommendations on diverse issues, including:
– Establishing self-employment centers.
– Opening de-addiction centers.
– Preventing silicosis.
– Promoting schemes in villages.
– Creating child safety awareness programs.
– Supporting nomadic communities.
– Addressing child labor prevention.
– Building sports complexes for the disabled.
– Raising mental health awareness.
– Introducing gender budgets.
– Creating a consumer care research center.
– Forming a migrant labor board.
– Establishing rehabilitation homes for the mentally challenged.
Participating Organizations
Organizations such as Manjari Foundation, Apna Ghar Ashram, Umang, Seva Bharti, Naya Savera, Bhagwan Mahavir Child Care, Alakh Foundation, Prayas Sansthan, Save the Children, Akshaya Patra Foundation, and the Nomadic Caste Upliftment Trust provided their inputs.
Government Officials Present
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar, Medical and Health Minister Gajendra Singh, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Avinash Gehlot, Panchayati Raj Minister Otaram Dewasi, Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, Additional Chief Secretary Finance Akhil Arora, Principal Secretary Chief Minister’s Office Alok Gupta, and other senior officials.
