In the larger interests of tendu patta collectors, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has announced to increase rate of tendu patta collection to Rs950 per standard bag. He informed that earlier Rs750 per standard bag wages were given to tendupatta collectors, which is now being increased to Rs950 per standard bag. Chouhan was launching Atal Jyoti Abhiyan at Hoshangabad district headquarters.
Chouhan said that the State Government is making sustained efforts for improving living standard of every section and every person in the State. Proper arrangements have been made to ensure that light of development reaches every house. He said that wheat will be provided to the poor at the rate of Re. 1 per kg. Power supply will also be ensured 24 hours.
He said that power is vital for development since industries and irrigation is dependent on it. There are a number of development works, which cannot be done without power. The State was backward earlier in power sector, which is most necessary for development. Only 2900 MW power was available in the State. The existing State Government has increased power generation to 10 thousand 600 MW. It will be increased further to 14 thousand MW by March 2014.
Referring to strategy adopted for tiding over power crisis, the Chief Minister said that the State Government set up 4 power plants during last years. Private sector has also been invited to set up power plants.
Availability power in the State has increased due to these efforts as a result of which 24X7 power supply is being ensured in the State.
The Chief Minister said that data of the Union Government shows that Madhya Pradesh is number one in the country in growth rate. He said that for improving State's economy, it is necessary that cottage and small industries are set up in every village. Basic amenities like water, power and roads are being provided to villages.
The State Government is providing bank guarantee Rs25 lakh loan to jobless youths to start self-employment and business.
Forest Minister Sartaj Singh Said that the State Government has taken care of every section of society. Energy Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla said that 24X7 power supply scheme is not for some months or years, but forever.
The Chief Minister flagged off a special mobile van to publicise welfare schemes like Atal Jyoti Abhiyan and Rs. 1 per kg wheat to the poor through lED. Three mobile vans have been flagged off for Hoshangabad district. On the occasion, Atal Jyoti Abhiyan's flag and kit were also provided to selected sarpanchas.