Punjab releases Rs 72.21 crore for development of SC-majority villages under Adarsh Gram Yojana
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 27, 2026: The Punjab Government has released ₹72.21 crore under the Adarsh Gram Yojana to accelerate the development of villages with 40 per cent or more Scheduled Caste (SC) population, Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur announced on Saturday.
The minister said the initiative reflects the Bhagwant Mann-led government’s commitment to ensuring inclusive rural development and building a ‘Rangla Punjab’ by providing equal development opportunities and improved infrastructure in every village.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said administrative approval has been granted for 3,763 villages to conduct household surveys, prepare Village Development Plans (VDPs) and undertake other planning-related activities. In addition, 242 newly selected villages will receive a ₹20 lakh gap-filling grant each to address local infrastructure needs identified through the VDPs.
She said the scheme promotes convergence with various ongoing development programmes to ensure efficient utilisation of resources and better developmental outcomes. District-level committees headed by the respective Deputy Commissioners will oversee planning, implementation and monitoring of the projects.
The minister added that the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities is working to transform SC-majority villages into model villages by strengthening basic infrastructure, expanding civic amenities and improving the overall quality of life for residents.