Northeast Desk, 24th July: Lok Sabha MP Dr. Indra Hang Subba recently met with Kamlesh Paswan, Minister of State for the Rural Development Department, to address the pressing challenges faced in implementing the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in Sikkim.
Dr. Subba highlighted the unique difficulties encountered in Himalayan regions, emphasizing the disparity in infrastructure development costs between hilly areas and the plains. He noted that the rugged terrain significantly increases the cost and complexity of road construction. For example, building a road in hilly areas costs substantially more than in flatter regions.
To address these challenges, Dr. Subba requested adjustments in regulations to provide increased financial support and extended timelines for infrastructure projects in hilly areas, given the unpredictable and harsh terrain.
Minister Paswan acknowledged these concerns and committed to convening a meeting with higher authorities and relevant departments to explore solutions. This commitment offers hope for the necessary concessions and support to ensure effective implementation of PMGSY and MGNREGA in Sikkim and other Himalayan regions.