State progressing at threefold pace to uplift deprived communities, says Governor
Chandigarh, March 7 – Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya lauded the state government on Friday for driving Haryana toward rapid development and inclusivity by prioritizing the welfare and upliftment of backward and deprived communities.
Delivering his address on the opening day of Haryana Assembly's budget session, Governor Dattatreya emphasized that the government, in its third term, is dedicated to advancing Haryana's growth at thrice the pace of previous administrations.
Drawing inspiration from Swami Vivekananda's timeless call, "Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached," the governor praised the government's relentless efforts to transform Haryana into a model state characterized by sincerity, determination, and dedication toward public welfare.
Enhanced Social Security and Pension Schemes
Highlighting the government's proactive approach to social security, Dattatreya detailed initiatives such as pensions for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals (Divyangs), widows, widowers, destitute children, and unmarried adults. He noted that, so far, Rs 1,093.40 crore has been directly credited into the bank accounts of 5,43,663 beneficiaries through this innovative pension model.
Farmers Benefitting from Direct MSP Payments
Governor Dattatreya also underscored Haryana's pioneering efforts in agricultural welfare, pointing out that Haryana is the only state in India procuring all 24 crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP). Through the state’s e-Kharid portal, Rs 1,25,000 crore has been directly transferred to 12 lakh farmers’ bank accounts over nine cropping seasons.
Focus on Water Resource Management and Infrastructure
Addressing water resource challenges, Dattatreya highlighted ongoing construction of critical dams—Renuka, Kishau, and Lakhwar Vyasi—on the upper reaches of the Yamuna River. Upon completion, Haryana will secure 47.81% of the total stored water, significantly enhancing water availability.
He further mentioned that the Adi Badri Dam, being constructed in collaboration with Himachal Pradesh, is expected to be completed by June 2027. He reaffirmed Haryana’s commitment to resolving the Satluj Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal issue, asserting that the state would ensure its legitimate share of water from Ravi and Beas rivers.
Empowerment Through Housing and Welfare Schemes
Governor Dattatreya revealed significant progress under state housing schemes. The Mukhyamantri Shahri Awas Yojana has allocated 15,256 plots measuring 30 square yards in 14 cities. Additionally, the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana has provided 4,533 plots—100 square yards in 62 villages and 50 square yards each in Mahagrams—to eligible families.
The government also extended financial aid of around Rs 1,476 crore to over 7,40,000 laborers through welfare schemes. Recent air-quality measures under 'GRAP-4' saw Rs 265 crore disbursed to 6.54 lakh registered laborers affected by restrictions in Delhi-NCR.
Women’s Empowerment with ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme
Dattatreya praised the government’s dedicated efforts toward women's economic empowerment. He noted the ambitious goal of enabling 5 lakh women to become 'Lakhpati Didis', with 2 lakh women already achieving the milestone. The scheme, focused on empowering women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and individual entrepreneurs, has seen the establishment of 64,500 active SHGs. Additionally, 33% of ration depots across the state are earmarked for women, with 252 depots already allocated.
Promoting Quality Education Under NEP 2020
The governor emphasized Haryana’s commitment to quality education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, highlighting that all universities and affiliated colleges will adopt employment-oriented, research-driven curricula beginning from the academic year 2024-25.
Law and Order Maintained with Improved Security
Dattatreya expressed satisfaction with Haryana's stable law and order situation, noting a 12.7% reduction in criminal cases registered in 2024 compared to the previous year. He further stated that Haryana aims to become the first state to fully implement the three newly enacted criminal laws by March 31, 2025.
Supporting Sports and Healthcare Initiatives
In his address, the governor commended Haryana’s athletes for bringing national and international recognition to the state. He also highlighted significant healthcare advancements, mentioning 15 operational medical colleges and ongoing efforts to establish government medical colleges in 11 districts.
Governor Dattatreya concluded by affirming Haryana’s determined strides toward holistic growth, promising sustained efforts to enhance social welfare, economic prosperity, and inclusive development across the state.