Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday announced a slew of welfare measures for representatives of Bihar’s panchayati raj system, promising to double their allowances, introduce pension benefits, and provide substantial insurance coverage if the INDIA bloc forms the next government in the state.
Addressing a press conference, Yadav said that elected representatives of panchayats and Gram Kachaharis (village courts) have long been demanding financial security and social benefits, which his party intends to fulfill.
“Representatives of panchayats and Gram Kachahari had been demanding pension benefits. We have decided that they will receive a pension. They would also enjoy a Rs 50 lakh insurance coverage,” Yadav announced.
He further announced that the INDIA bloc would double the allowances currently being provided to all panchayati raj representatives.
The Nitish Kumar government had in June increased allowances and other benefits of panchayati raj institution functionaries and ward members across the state.
The monthly allowance of zila parishad presidents was increased to Rs 30,000 from Rs 20,000, vice presidents (Rs 20,000 from Rs 10,000) and 'mukhiyas' (Rs 7,500 per month from Rs 5,000).
At present, there are 8,053 gram panchayats, 533 panchayat samitis and 38 zila parishads functional in the state.
In addition, Yadav promised a substantial increase in the per-quintal margin money for distributors working under Bihar’s Public Distribution System (PDS), acknowledging their contribution to the state’s food supply network.
Besides, we will provide Rs 5 lakh interest-free loans to barbers, those engaged in the pottery business, and carpenters in the state, Tejashwi added.
