Tamil Nadu to fast-track rural development projects

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to accelerate the implementation of rural development programmes, including Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Gramin (PMAY-G) and Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), while also taking up the renovation of more than 5,000 minor irrigation tanks in rural areas.

The decision was taken at a review meeting chaired by Rural Development Minister N Anand. During the meeting, the minister directed officials to expedite the execution of various rural housing and infrastructure schemes, particularly in districts that are lagging in performance, according to an official release issued here.

The minister also warned of strict departmental action against officials if any complaints related to irregularities or delays are received.

Progress under several rural housing initiatives was reviewed during the meeting. These included Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Gramin (PMAY-G), PM-JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) for particularly vulnerable tribal groups, the state rural housing scheme, the Tsunami houses repair scheme, the Chief Minister’s house reconstruction scheme, and the housing scheme in Sri Lankan Tamil refugee rehabilitation camps.

The minister further stressed the need to meet targets under key civic and environmental programmes.

These include the rehabilitation of 5,000 minor irrigation tanks in rural areas, the MLA Constituency Development Scheme (MLACDS), Namakku Naame Thittam, the School Infrastructure Development Scheme, the Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), and various waste management projects.