NEW DELHI: In a significant move towards transforming India's underprivileged regions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 'Sankalp Saptaah' program during a ceremonial event held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This unique week-long initiative is set to revitalize the country's aspirational blocks, marking a crucial step in enhancing the quality of life for millions.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi reflected on the remarkable impact of the aspirational district's program, which has positively impacted the lives of over 25 crore people across 112 districts in India. He emphasized that this program has ushered in tangible improvements in the standard of living and is now laying the foundation for the aspirational blocks program.
Bharat Mandapam, historically a forum for global leaders to discuss international matters, has now become the focal point for individuals driving change at the grassroots level. Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of this summit, likening it to the G20 summit in importance. He highlighted the attendees' dedication to rural India's welfare and the development-oriented policies they seek to promote.
With unwavering confidence, Prime Minister Modi expressed his belief in the Aspirational Blocks Program's potential for 100% success, mirroring the achievements of its predecessor. He articulated the government's vision of India as a developed nation by 2047, emphasizing that development should not be confined to urban centers like Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai. Instead, it should encompass all 140 crore citizens, including those in rural areas.
Prime Minister Modi described 'Sankalp Saptaah' as a symbol of Team India's success and a testament to the collective spirit of resolve and accomplishment. He stressed the program's importance for India's future, symbolizing progress achieved through determination.
The Aspirational Districts Program has followed a straightforward strategy, aiming for holistic and inclusive development. Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for fundamental grassroots-level changes to bring about substantial improvements.
Encouraging state governments and government officials, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of nurturing and supporting successful individuals within these blocks, ensuring their bright futures. These individuals, he noted, are instrumental in delivering results and should be empowered further.
During the launch of 'Sankalp Saptaah,' Prime Minister Modi engaged with stall owners at Bharat Mandapam, celebrating the spirit of 'Sabki Akankshayein Sabka Vikas' (Everyone's aspirations, Everyone's development).
'Sankalp Saptaah' is intrinsically linked to the effective implementation of the Aspirational Blocks Program (ABP), initiated by the Prime Minister on January 7, 2023. The program aims to bolster governance at the block level, ultimately improving the citizens' quality of life. It is currently operational in 500 Aspirational Blocks spread across 329 districts nationwide. The preparation for an effective block development strategy involved organizing chintan shivirs (brainstorming sessions) at the village and block levels, culminating in 'Sankalp Saptaah.'
'Sankalp Saptaah' will unfold in all 500 Aspirational Blocks, with each day from October 3 to October 9, 2023, dedicated to a specific development theme. The themes for the first six days include 'Sampoorna Swasthya' (Total Health), 'Suposhit Pariwaar' (Nourished Families), 'Swachhta' (Cleanliness), 'Krishi' (Agriculture), 'Shiksha' (Education), and 'Samridhi Diwas' (Prosperity Day). On October 9, 2023, the final day of the week, the accomplishments of the entire week will be celebrated during 'Sankalp Saptaah – Samavesh Samaroh' (Sankalp Week - Culmination Celebration).
The inaugural ceremony witnessed the participation of around 3,000 panchayat and block-level representatives and officials from across the nation, congregating at Bharat Mandapam. Additionally, approximately two lakh individuals, including block and panchayat level officials, farmers, and representatives from various walks of life, joined the event virtually.
'Sankalp Saptaah' stands as a pivotal initiative aimed at uplifting India's aspirational blocks and catalyzing comprehensive development across the country. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, this program marks a significant milestone towards achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and grassroots empowerment.
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