Minister for Social Welfare, Forest, Ecology & Environment, Mr. Bali Bhagat today distributed cheques amounting to Rs. 4 lakh among 33 beneficiaries for construction of toilet units under the National Flagship programme Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) at a function held at Panchayat Hakkal in Phalian Mandal block of Raipur-Domana constituency.Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that SBM is an ambitious programme aimed at keeping the country neat and clean with a missionary approach and active participation of citizens. Under a dedicated effort and massive nation-wide campaign, the Union Government has launched SBM through which thrust is being laid on construction of toilets in every household and keeping a check on use of open space for defecation. Under the said scheme government provides Rs. 12000 each for a toilet unit.
He called upon the people to avail benefit under the programme and help maintaining a clean environment.The Minister also highlighted other social welfare schemes launched by the Government for the poor and asked people to avail benefits under these initiatives that are aimed to improve living conditions of the rural people.The people also put forth several demands before the Minister mainly pertaining to upgradation of basic facilities like drinking water, lanes and drains, road network, school infrastructure. He issued on spot instructions to the concerned to take immediate steps to address the issues. Sarpanchs, panchs and sectoral officers of different departments were also present on the occasion.