Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin Suffers Due to Panchayat Secretary’s Negligence

A recent meeting in Surajpur District revealed shortcomings in the execution of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, particularly within the jurisdiction of Gram Panchayat Semrakhurd. The Panchayat Secretary, Sukhdev Prasad, is held responsible for the lack of progress in the housing scheme. For the fiscal year 2024-26, the Gram Panchayat Semrakhurd was given a target of 131 houses. However, the Panchayat Secretary’s failure to secure approvals for 22 beneficiaries under the Awas Plus initiative, along with the slow progress on the 73 already approved houses, has raised concerns. The lack of proper oversight and insufficient attention to the completion of housing projects by the Panchayat Secretary has been identified as the main cause of the scheme’s slow progress. Sukhdev Prasad’s actions are a clear display of negligence and disregard for his duties, violating the Chhattisgarh Panchayat Service (Conduct) Rules and the Chhattisgarh Panchayat (Powers and Actions of Secretary) Rules, which resulted in his immediate suspension.