Una (Kameshwar Sharma): Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri administered the oath of office to newly elected Panchayat Pradhans and Up-Pradhans in Una district on Monday. The ceremony took place at Lata Mangeshkar Kala Kendra in Samoor Kalan. Nearly 500 Panchayat representatives and their family members attended the event. The ceremony marked an important moment for grassroots democracy. A total of 249 Una Panchayat Leaders Sworn In to serve their villages over the next five years. During his address, Agnihotri highlighted rural development, transparent governance, and public welfare.
Villages Hold the Key to Development
Agnihotri said villages form the strongest foundation of development and social change. He added that prosperous villages will create a stronger Himachal Pradesh.
Furthermore, he urged Panchayat representatives to rise above political differences. He encouraged them to work together for public welfare and village development.
According to Agnihotri, Panchayat leaders shape the future of rural communities. Therefore, their decisions will influence village growth in the coming years.
He also advised leaders to leave election-related differences behind. Instead, they should begin a new phase of cooperation and dialogue. Healthy competition, he said, should focus on education, cleanliness, and social welfare.
Focus on Public Welfare
The Deputy Chief Minister urged Panchayat leaders to prioritize poor families, young people, and weaker sections of society.
In addition, he asked them to ensure that government welfare schemes reach every eligible citizen. Pension benefits, housing assistance, and social security programs should reach beneficiaries without delay.
Moreover, he called for greater support for orphaned children and vulnerable families. He said Panchayat representatives serve as the closest link between the government and the people.
As a result, they play a crucial role in improving lives at the grassroots level.
Major Projects to Boost Una’s Growth
249 Una Panchayat Leaders Sworn In, Agnihotri highlighted several major projects underway in Una district.
He said the ₹2,000 crore Bulk Drug Park project will transform the local economy. The Central Government and the Himachal Pradesh Government are contributing ₹1,000 crore each to the project.
Additionally, authorities are developing a modern PGI Satellite Centre at Malahat. The facility will improve healthcare services across the region.
The Deputy Chief Minister also announced a major investment in the development of Chintpurni Temple. The state government plans to spend nearly ₹250 crore on infrastructure and visitor facilities.
According to Agnihotri, these projects will create jobs and strengthen the local economy.
Panchayats Must Lead the Fight Against Drugs
A significant part of Agnihotri’s speech focused on drug abuse.
He urged Panchayats to lead a mass movement against drugs. He stressed that village leaders must actively support anti-drug campaigns.
Furthermore, he called for strict action against those involved in the drug trade. He specifically referred to the growing threat of chitta and other harmful substances.
Agnihotri said every Panchayat should work toward creating a drug-free environment. Such efforts, he noted, will protect the future of young people.
Transparency and Accountability Are Essential
The Deputy Chief Minister reminded representatives about their administrative responsibilities.
He urged them to use their powers responsibly and transparently. Every decision, he said, should serve the public interest.
Moreover, he encouraged leaders to report corruption or misuse of authority immediately. At the same time, they should perform their duties with honesty and fairness.
He also asked district officials to work closely with Panchayat representatives. Strong cooperation, he said, will speed up development projects.
Strengthening Democracy at the Grassroots
Concluding his address, Agnihotri said the oath represents a commitment to public service. It should not be viewed as a mere formality.
He noted that democracy draws its strength from elected representatives at every level. Therefore, Panchayat leaders must honor the trust voters have placed in them.
The 249 Una Panchayat Leaders Sworn In ceremony concluded with a collective pledge to strengthen rural development, transparency, and good governance across Una district.
Key Highlights of the news:
- 249 Una Panchayat Leaders Sworn In during a grand ceremony in Una.
- Mukesh Agnihotri urged representatives to focus on development and public welfare.
- Major projects including the ₹2,000 crore Bulk Drug Park were highlighted.
- Panchayats were asked to ensure welfare schemes reach every eligible citizen.
- The Deputy Chief Minister called for a strong campaign to create drug-free villages.
