Panches vow to contribute to economic development

Panches from 176 villages of Malerkotla, Amargarh and Ahmedgarh subdivisions vowed to contribute towards improving economy and maintaining civil amenities of their respective areas. Their aim was to enable a dignified life for villagers.

The oath was pledged in response to a call made by Mines and Geology, Water Resources, Conservation of Land and Water Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal. The swearing-in-ceremony was held at Bhogiwal village

on Tuesday.

Women panches played a prominent role during the ceremony which lasted for more than four hours. A selfie point was also installed to create social media buzz about the event.

Malerkotla legislator Mohammad Zamil Ur Rehman and Amargarh MLA Jaswant Singh Gajjanmajra were also present. Before the oath taking ceremony, Goyal said that the Punjab Government would continue to give maximum power to office bearers and members of rural civic bodies. He deemed the institute of panchayat to be the foundation stone of India’s democracy.

Goyal said, “Our government believes in respecting democratic values in letter and spirit. We have proved it by not interfering in the election process.” He also added that the government has ensured not to challenge the election of any panchayat member or employ any unfair practice.

Goyal applauded the panches for developing their respective areas and spreading positivity. The minister called upon the elected representatives to preserve all the four components of the biosphere, namely air, water and soil. Goyal also expressed concern over the depleting water table of the state. He appealed to the panchayat members to discourage residents from installing more submersible pumps.