Jaipur, Rajasthan:
In a high-level cabinet and council of ministers meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, the Rajasthan government has taken several pivotal decisions aimed at transforming the state into a global industrial hub in line with the “Viksit Rajasthan @ 2047” vision. Beyond industrial development, the government has introduced significant welfare reforms for pensioners and set strict protocols for the delivery of essential public services.
New Industrial Policy: Targeting a $350 Billion Economy
To foster economic growth and attract investment, the cabinet has approved a comprehensive Rajasthan Industrial Development Policy.
- Economic Goal: The policy aims to scale the state’s economy to $350 billion by the 2028-29 fiscal year.
- Strategic Framework: Based on the four pillars of “4G”—Green, Governance, Growth, and Globalization—the policy prioritizes environmentally friendly manufacturing, renewable energy, and a circular economy.
- Target Sectors: The policy offers special incentives for advanced industries, including Semiconductors, Data Centers, Defense Manufacturing, Gems & Jewellery, Textiles, Tourism, and Agro-processing.
- Project Approval: The cabinet cleared land allocation for major projects, including the Dalmia Cement plant and J.K. Cement Limited’s infrastructure in Jaisalmer, expected to generate significant employment and investment.
Pension Reforms: Digital Empowerment for Pensioners
In a major relief for the state’s pensioners, the cabinet approved three amendments to the Rajasthan Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1996:
- Digital Life Certificates: Pensioners can now submit their annual life certificates from home using a mobile app via Face Authentication Technology.
- Simplified Documentation: Permanent disability certificates for specially-abled children will now be a one-time requirement instead of the previous three-year renewal cycle.
- Process Streamlining: The authentication process for family pensions has been simplified; certification from one gazetted officer or reputable person is now sufficient, replacing the previous requirement of two.
- Administrative Access: Non-gazetted employees have also been authorized to issue life certificates via their SSO IDs.
‘Vande Ganga’ Water Conservation Campaign
With an emphasis on water security, the state will launch the “Vande Ganga Water Conservation-Jan Abhiyan” from May 25 (Ganga Dashami) to June 5 (World Environment Day).
- Activities: The campaign will focus on cleaning water bodies, desilting canals, and organizing “Jal Chaupals” to promote water harvesting.
- Recognition: The government will confer the ‘Jal Gaurav Samman’ upon water warriors, institutions, and local bodies that demonstrate excellence in water conservation.
Monitoring Electricity and Water Supply
Addressing the challenges of the peak summer season, the government reviewed the state’s power and water infrastructure:
- Supply Status: Officials reported that electricity availability in the state is currently exceeding peak demand.
- Strict Oversight: Ministers-in-charge have been directed to regularly monitor water and power supply in their respective districts. The government has mandated that complaints registered via the 181 Helpline must be resolved within 24 hours.
Special Gram Sabhas for Master Plans
Following the recent “Viksit Gram-Shahar Ward Abhiyan,” which gathered aspirations and baseline data from over 14,000 gram panchayats and 10,000 urban wards, the government will hold special Gram Sabhas on May 26 to formally approve the drafted master plans for local development.
Disclaimer: This report is based on the official press release issued by the Government of Rajasthan. For detailed policy notifications and administrative orders, please refer to the official website of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) or the concerned government departments.
