Laying the foundation of a Happy & Healthy Gujarat
My government has undertaken a number of initiatives including setting up new hospitals with modern facilities across the state and specialized universities which include an organ transplant university and Institute of Public health. We have also planned to create awareness about healthcare and education among the tribal population of Gujarat. But our most important initiative has been the state wide free health camps.
Gujarat’s health camp initiative, which began in June 2015, is one of the most effective direct interventions by the state government. Through these health camps, people across the state are given access to free screening and treatment for life-threatening diseases like Cancer particularly Breast and Cervical Cancer, Diabetes and Hypertension.
The idea behind this initiative came to me last year when a young woman came to meet me at my office. This woman was suffering from cancer, and could not afford treatment. However, she was not concerned about herself; she only talked about her two little children who were dependent on her for their future, as she was the sole breadwinner. This incident pained me deeply and nudged me to the core to do something about it. I deliberated with my officials on how to ensure that a population as vibrant and full of life as Gujarat’s would not have to suffer the agony that a terminal disease like Cancer brings. As of March 26 of this year a total of 75 lakh women across Gujarat were screened for Breast and Cervical cancer.
Diabetes, considered as a lifestyle disease, has proved to be another healthcare challenge. And the state administration is dealing with it head on. We have screened about 47 lakh people for Diabetes through our health camps in the past 10 months. More than 2.75 lakh people have been detected with Diabetes and are undergoing free treatment at different hospitals and medical care units across the state.
While it is true that there are some issues that Gujarat still has to address with regard to healthcare, no one can deny the work we have done in this area. With regard to improving access to Healthcare for the public, our State’s motto has been “Action…Not Words’’.
Gujarat’s journey from Act to Action with people centric approach
Vidhan Sabha’s Budget Session ended recently. In 1 month budget session of the assembly which ended on the 31st March, it was an honor to meet over 1 lakh visitors consisting of almost 63 thousand women and more than 22 thousand youth and students. In this budget session 14 bills benefitting people of the state have been passed. Also, over 5 public welfare policies were announced. Now our focus in the near future would be on proper implementation of these policies.
It is one thing to form new policies for the welfare of the state and it is a completely different challenge to implement these policies and ensure that their benefits reach to the citizens.
The diversity in the population of Gujarat is fascinating. More than 6 crore people live in the state… people of different religions… different castes…from people who are uneducated to people with high qualifications… people with different mentalities…twice the number of people living in Australia are living in our tiny Gujarat…a village woman cooking dinner using the heat of a traditional stove also lives here and a modern woman ordering her dinner using her smart phone also lives in various cities of the state; and a government workforce of 5 lakh employees to ensure that all these different types of people and their welfare is taken into consideration while drafting policies.
People from the Management Sector have a saying to describe the difficulty of getting work done in such a huge and complex system – Elephant can’t dance.
But we have found a solution to this predicament. If you look at the scenario of the last 15 or so years, you would find that Gujarat has consistently stressed over Action rather than Act. Not only do we aspire to simplify laws, rules and schemes, but we focus more energy on their implementation.
To ensure successful implementation of schemes and initiatives, we started the Gatisheel Gujarat campaign. Under this program, every department of the government aims to finish development related activities within the stipulated time frame and regularly review meetings are held to check the progress of the work. Let me give you an example, on the 1st of April, 2015 we decided that in the next 365 days, 1000 villages of the state would be equipped with 100% sanitation facilities. We had decided to accomplish 173 such objectives; and it gives me immense pleasure to tell you that most of these objectives have been achieved.
Today, we will initiate the LokSamvad Setu program. I myself will visit various talukas and listen to people’s problems. I’ll try my best to resolve their issues on the spot. I’ll also ensure that not only are the issues resolved but also they don’t repeat again in the future.
Let me share something about the world famous computer company IBM. Due to its mammoth size and complex management it was about to collapse in the 90s. The company’s newly appointed CEO Louis Gerstner understood the work culture of the company and took significant steps which resulted in the company functioning smoothly again. He proved the famous Elephant proverb wrong and established a new example in the corporate world. His book describing this success story is very well known.
Similarly our state’s population and government administration are also colossal, but due to action oriented top-down approach of the government, the initiatives under my vigilance travel effectively from the top to the bottom rungs of the administration. Initiative and schemes used to be announced even 15 years ago, but today due to proper implementation their benefits reach to the citizens more efficiently. Even Gujarat state has proved that elephant proverb wrong. Now even we can proudly say that come to Gujarat and see, even Elephant can dance!
Yours,
Anandiben
I Salute Women Power on International Women’s Day
I will share with you an example of Dipikaben of Anand who makes income worth Rs. 18 lakh by adopting scientific method of cattle rearing. She makes use of top quality seeds, nutritious hay and organic fertilizers and has won this year’s best stockman award. Income generated by her is no small feat.
The courageous rescue operations carried out in Gir forest by Rasila Vadhera and her team of women forest guard is known to all in India and abroad,and it’s no surprise that Discovery made a documentary film ‘The Lion Queens of India’on them.
Social change and development usually reaches a bit late at the grass-root level and therefore I thought of sharing the success stories of women from villages. Women have realized their power and they have proved themselves in every field possible.
World has come to understand that to create a social culture of happiness and prosperity, women have to be given equal status in society. In this area, Gujarat Government has taken thorough measures in last 15 years. State government has given utmost priority to women’s education, security, health and financial independence. Women of the state have made use of security helpline number 181 –Abhayam for immediate rescue and security. Under Suraksha Setu Program, girls are being trained in self-defense. Government is providing free of cost treatment for breast and cervical cancer to women of all caste and creed and all income groups, under which 65 lakh women have undergone free screening. For women safety and hygiene, government has undertaken a mission of building individual toilets in each household in next two years.
Gujarat government’s various initiatives such as providing nutritious food for expectant mothers and girls, 33% reservation for women for state government jobs and 50% reservation in local self-government bodies, bank loan credit for generating employment for Sakhi Mandals, and separate industrial park for women entrepreneurs have resulted in outstanding performance of women in all areas of life. For the year 2016-17, Gujarat has presented gender budget for the third consecutive time, in which 136 schemes are 100% women oriented and 475 are partially women oriented.
Friends, I urge you all to support governments efforts made in this field. Girl child too has a right to be born, she too should be given to a chance to fly high, be independent and contribute in living a better life.
I urge women to have faith in their abilities and make efforts to live a successful and independent life. Gujarat government is committed to provide all women equal status, job opportunities and security. An ordinary farmer’s daughter from Kharod village, Mehsana is talking to you as the Chief Minister of Gujarat today, is a live example of state government’s commitment towards women empowerment. Women are self-reliant and therefore I call upon all women to realize their power and potential and contribute for the development of the nation.vb
Yours,
Anandiben Patel
From Khel Mahakumbh to Asian Games, Gujarat’s march towards victory
Have you heardthe names of Harmit Desai, Ankita Raina, Maana Patel or Ankit Rajpura? These are talented sport stars of Gujarat who have made the state proud by winning and achieving recognition at National and International sports arena.
Friends, Gujarati community has a reputation in business but when it comes to ‘sports’ it is believed‘This dal and rice eating community does not have any ability for sports’. And, it’s not completely wrong.Here, we don’t have a social environment where kids can take active interest in sports.
However, now situation is gradually changing. Gujarat’s players are shining at National and International level in games like swimming, shooting, tennis, and chess. With an aim to make Gujarat number one in sports programs and schemes launched by state in last 12 years have contributed significantly to this change.
Gujarat state’s one such ambitious, mega program Khel Mahakumbh is going to start tomorrow statewide. This time, around 40 lakh people from every age-group have participated and we have organized games for physically challenged too. In total 27 games including Kho-kho, Kabbadi,badminton, football, swimming have been covered and prize worth Rs 43 cr. will be distributed.
Khel Mahakumbh is not just a sports competition but it’s anattempt to create a healthy sports culture in the state. Falling, getting hurt,putting your best foot forward to make your team win, sportsman spirit, accepting failure and success gracefully, these are some important lessons that can be learned only in the playground.
First Khel Mahakumbh was organized in 2010. Post that, we have made considerable changes and improved the quality of this mega event. Last year, a special summer camp for 28000 players was organized. They were given training of international level by expert coaches.
To prepare players for International level of sports, talented players should get superior quality training, modern equipment and muscle-strengthening nutritious diet. We have undertaken this activity under ShaktiDoot yojna.
In abroad, the structure of sports league is prevalent. Taking a cue from this we have formed 7 leagues at zonal level for 5 games.Just imagine a football game is organized between Ahmedabad and Jamnagar, and thousands of people have come to see it. What a view it would be to witness an environment like a mini-world cup. If sports culture like this is established in Gujarat it will improve economy of the people.
When I was in school it was mandatory for us to be in the playground after the classes. Our teachers used to train us, and consequently for three years in a row I received the award of ‘VeerBala’in Mehsana. I wish to see that in Gujarat we have thousands of strong minded Veers and Veerbalas.
Along with Khel Mahakumbh I can hear drum thumping for Asian Games-2018 which is going to organized in Indonesia. I am expecting that my Gujarati friends will win at least 3 medals for their country. I see that youth in Gujarat are broadening their horizons, and now many of them are taking active interest in joining army. My young friends, come, fill the playground with your sweat. Show it to the world that if this dal and rice eating community decides no one can beat us in sports. March ahead with determination, victory is yours!
Yours,
Anandiben
Laying a Strong Foundation of ‘Healthy Gujarat’
A few months back, a young woman came to meet me at the office. With agony, she shared that she is suffering from cancer but can’t afford to get herself treated. Her family, including her two children, is dependent on her and she was worried about their future. This incident deeply pained me. I deliberated with my officials and that is how the foundation of state-wide free health-camps was laid.
People across Gujarat are being screened and treated for serious diseases like cancer, diabetes, hypertension under free health-camps organized since June 2015. Till now, more than 29 lakh women from all parts of Gujarat have been screened for cervical and breast cancer, and those diagnosed are undergoing free treatment.
Government of Gujarat is sincerely devoted to ensure that people of our state leads a healthy and happy life. Friends, I believe that it is important to inculcate healthy habits in our children today, so that they grow up to live a healthy life. And that is why wellbeing of children has been our utmost priority. Intensive medical checkup of more than 43 lakh aanganwadi children from across the state was recently undertaken, out of which, one lakh highly malnourished children were found and treated by the government.
Health and hygiene of our children is as important as their education. Furthering the same thought, today we launched the state-wide School Health Program which will go on till February 6, 2015. Encompassing over 1.56 crore children, including aanganwadi kids and students studying in primary-secondary-higher secondary schools, this program will extend health check up, screening and treatment of diseases and education on hygiene habits. Over 1.54 crore children were benefitted under School Health Program last year. Out of which, 15,98,975 children were treated on the spot, 4249 children were treated for heart ailments, 1177 were treated for kidney diseases, 781 were treated for cancer, 9 underwent kidney transplant and 2 children underwent liver transplant.
Also, it is significant to understand that children with cleft lips-palette and club foot when treated at young age can prove to be life-saving. Government of Gujarat is also treating such children free of cost, promising them a brighter future.
Dear friends, I believe that laying strong foundations of ‘Healthy Gujarat’ today will reap a glorious and prosperous Gujarat. I appeal everyone to participate in this journey and ensure that every child takes benefit of the ongoing School Health Program.
Yours,
Anandiben
Moving ahead in our consistent growth-journey on paths of Peace and Harmony
Last few days have brought many instances when Gujarat’s growth-journey has found recognition on national and global map. Amidst abundance of news in last few weeks, it is likely that some of you might have missed these updates that will surely make you feel proud to be a citizen of Gujarat.
Recently, World Bank has compiled a report rating the performance of Indian states in ‘Ease of Doing Business’. Gujarat has topped the rankings, with a score of 71.14 per cent, on a 98-point action plan identified to assess regulatory reforms and good governance initiatives. It is a matter of great pride for all of us that with industry-friendly policies, effective governance and infrastructural strength, our state Gujarat continues to be the preferred destination for industry investments in the country today.
We are a land of cultural diversity with a rich heritage of art and traditions. Varied cuisines, costumes, dialects, folk dances, festivals and celebrations add to it being a great tourist destination. I am happy to share that our efforts to put Gujarat on tourism map have been recognized. On 18 September, 2015, Hon’ble President of India honoured Gujarat the first position for ‘Comprehensive Development of Tourism’ and ‘Best Rural Tourism Project’ at National Tourism Awards in New Delhi.
Continuing our performance in Good Governance, Gujarat recently bagged nine Skoch Awards for Smart Governance in various areas of municipal governance, education, skill development and health. Projects like electronic surveillance of the State Board Examination, ‘SAMVEDANA’ initiative that facilitates distribution of benefits to Maldhari tribes of Gir Forest Ness and use of renewable sources in municipal services have been honoured along with Gujarat receiving the State Award for Momentum.
(Details of Skotch Awards can be read at :
http://anandibenpatel.com/team-gujarat-bags-important-awards-for-smart-governance-at-41st-skoch-summit/ )
Friends, sustainable, inclusive and constant growth of any developing nation is always a challenge. Eradicating evils of poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, superstitions and developing on the foundations of education, awareness, infrastructural facilities, last-mile delivery of government initiatives is a constant phenomenon. To improve the economic condition of people, more employment opportunities need to be created. To build employable youth, their education needs to be emphasized upon. People will be attracted to education only if they are economically capable. Thus this becomes a vicious circle and every developing state and nation is working hard to break the barriers and to march ahead towards growth.
If we talk about Gujarat, path-breaking achievements, awards and recognition have become a consistent and constant process since last ten years. Gujarat’s growth-journey is always talked about, during our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visits across the world. Yes, there is a lot more to be done, lot many miles to walk ahead, many more heights to achieve. But we, the people of Gujarat, know that amidst crucial circumstances and in such a small duration of time, Gujarat has achieved progress that the world can’t ignore. Friends, do you know the reason behind this achievement?
An environment of peace and harmony among the people of Gujarat that has prevailed since past ten years is the sole factor responsible for our consistent growth-journey. Spirit of unity, compassion and brotherhood in hearts of people has helped to break the vicious circle of under-development and has pushed Gujarat to greater heights of progress. Friends, when we are together marching ahead in this beautiful progressive journey of inclusive and sustainable growth of Gujarat, path of violence and disturbance can never appease us.
Today, on the birth anniversary of great patriots Mahatma Gandhiji and Lal Bahadur Shastriji, I pay them my sincere tributes. Let us reaffirm our commitment to walk on the path directed by them- path of truth, non-violence and brotherhood. Under the visionary leadership of Shri Narendrabhai, India is persistently marching ahead on the foundations of peace and harmony that will take our country to newer heights of success and accomplishments.
Yours sincerely,
Anandiben Patel
My message on 69th Independence Day
I extend my best wishes to all of you on our 69th Independence Day. This is the occasion to pay our obeisance to all the freedom fighters, who brought us our hard won Independence. This is the hour to remember our martyrs who sacrificed their lives to the call of ‘Vande Mataram’, to protect the dignity and honour of our tricolour.
As our respect to the selfless freedom fighters of our state, Gujarat Government has raised their pension by Rs 4000 to Rs 10,000 per month and that of their dependents, by Rs 2000 to Rs 7000.
It is a matter of pride for us that two of the greatest freedom fighters, Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, were the sons of Gujarat. That brings more responsibility on us as compared to other countrymen, to realize their dreams with all sincerity. Brothers and sisters, Gujarat has taken the right steps in the direction of the path carved by them. We are moving ahead towards ‘Surajya’, Good Governance, as envisioned by them. We are committed towards manifesting the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, ensuring inclusive growth with collective efforts.
Half of our state’s six-crore population comprises of women. We respect women prowess and are dedicated to provide equal status to them through continuous and innovative efforts towards women empowerment. As we know, Gujarat Government has presented two Gender Budgets in a row, incorporating 593 schemes for women, including 132 schemes only for women, involving budgetary provision of Rs 47,000 crore, this year. These provisions assure better health, education, security and economic-social status to women of Gujarat.
The State Government has reserved 33 per cent of seats for women for appointments in various posts, including that in the Police Force. Also, in Local Self-Government Institutions, the reservation has been increased from 33 per cent to 50 per cent to increase their representation. To provide economic incentive, banks provide cash credit to over 30 lakh women of Sakhi Mandals and Self-Help Groups. Land at token prices have been extended to 147 and assistance to construct ‘Doodh Ghar’ to 154 women milk-cooperatives. In another first, the State Government has decided to allocate a block for only women entrepreneurs at the upcoming Sanand Industrial Estate – thus solidifying development opportunities for women force – be it in service, animal husbandry in villages or industries in big cities.
Dear brothers and sisters, a mass-movement for India’s Independence had begun from the banks of river Sabarmati. Today, the same place has inspired people to awaken into another mass-movement for the development of Gujarat. This mass-movement for development has been linked to education and skill-development for youth’s employment. There are 69 universities and research centres and a network of over 700 ITIs that facilitate valuable education, skills, training and employment opportunities to Gujarat’s youth. Sincere efforts are being made to extend industry-specific training and skills to youth. Youth has an important role to play in our path to progress. India’s 65 per cent of population is below 35 years of age. We envision that every individual is empowered with work that suits his/her capabilities.
Entrepreneurship comes naturally to the people of Gujarat. We prefer doing business over jobs. With the motive to create self-employment and encourage our youth towards entrepreneurship, State Government has decided to allocate sheds for the youth in industrial estates under the Start-up Scheme. Under this scheme, necessary technical help and bank assistance is extended to the youth. In all, 9917 youth have been provided interest assistance under Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Yuva Sahsikta Yojana. Youth of Gujarat not only search jobs but are also capable of creating job-opportunities for others. Also, Gujarat has been making earnest attempts to motivate the youth to contribute in nation-building. Gujarat has produced nearly 36,000 Students Police Cadets to instill self-confidence in them and remind them of their responsibilities towards our nation.
Brothers and sisters, development of the state is after all meant for the welfare of the common man. It is the government’s responsibility to ensure last-mile delivery of various pro-people initiatives and schemes. Our government has spared no stone unturned to provide educational and medical facilities to the poor and middle class. To ensure that the poor and needy families don’t have to bear the burden of treatment of serious illnesses, the State Government has initiated Chief Minister’s Amrutam Yojana for the BPL families. Its scope has been extended under MA Vatsalya Yojana to middle class families earning less than Rs 1,20,000, through which they will be provided health insurance of Rs 2 lakh.
Reaffirming its commitment towards health-for-all, Gujarat Government has gone one step ahead and initiated state-wide health camps since June 1. Free diabetes tests, mammography, tests for breast and cervical cancer are conducted across 10,000 Health Centres in the state. So far, seven lakh people have tested for diabetes and 14,000 for breast and cervical cancer.
Birth of child is a matter of joy in every family. But unfortunately, there are families who suffer with the birth of children with deformities like cleft lips and bent feet. Till now Gujarat Government has screened over 43 lakh children, out of which 828 children have been treated with plastic surgery out of 2,108 children with deformities. This initiative has brought smiles on faces of family members. To me, this is ‘Good Governance’ in its true sense.
Development should not be limited to merely launching schemes and awareness campaigns. With the motive to solve people’s problems in time-bound manner and initiate an action-plan to address various issues, our Government has initiated ‘Gatisheel Gujarat’, as our commitment to be people-oriented and result-oriented. People’s grievances can be personal, about inheritance or about assistance for home. So far, over 25,000 cases of inheritance rights have been settled.
Under Mukhya Mantri Gruh Awas Yojana, Gujarat Government has constructed over 2,20,000 residential units as part of Sardar Awas Yojana, through which over 1,93,000 families have been provided with homes.
For speedy redressal of people’s grievances and taking governance to people’s doorsteps, Gujarat Government has initiated Lok Samvad Setu at district-level, through which 92% of the problems have been resolved successfully on the spot.
Farmers of Gujarat have set an agricultural revolution by registering over 11 per cent growth during the last decade. Recently when the farmers have suffered huge loss due to heavy rains, our government has stood by the side of affected families. I personally reviewed the rescue and relief operations. With sincere efforts, we could restore water-electricity supply, road connectivity within hours/days, bringing life to normalcy at the earliest.
I laud voluntary organisations, citizens and government karmayogis who helped in the hour of need during rescue operations. Under immediate measures, government extended assistance to the farmers and cattle-owners affected by the unprecedented rains, and helped them get interest assistance in bank loans.The assistance for the loss of household goods has been increased from Rs 3,800 to Rs 7,000. Gujarat is a land of people who are eager to help others and serve in times of need. Our government is dedicated to work for the poor and the under-privileged.
hrough Garib Kalyan Melas, government extends direct assistance to the needy under various government schemes. The state government disbursed assistance worth Rs 1,339 crore to over 10 lakh people during 127 Garib Kalyan Melas held in rural and urban areas during its seventh edition. While in the ongoing eighth edition of Garib Kalyan Melas, 13 lakh beneficiaries will get assistance for various developmental works. We have also given momentum to all-round development of our Vanbandhus, people residing in forests. 193 Van Vasahati (Forest habitat) villages have been declared Revenue Villages so that Vanbandhus get benefits under various government schemes. A huge task has been undertaken to handover land deeds to nearly 11,800 Vanbandhus to bring them in the purview of government’s pro-people initiatives.
Friends, in a paradigm shift from the past, we in Gujarat have begun the practice to observe state-level celebrations of National Festivals like Independence Day in remote tribal districts of Gujarat. Instead of celebrating the National Festivals in a stereotypical manner at the state-capital every year, the innovative decision has helped the government involve people’s participation at different places. From this year, we have decided to hold taluka-level festivals at different villages, and not necessarily at the taluka headquarters. This helps people living in even smaller towns feel the sanctity of the National Festivals and participate from close quarters. We feel that the progressive farmers, youth and other achievers of that district should also be felicitated at these state-level functions.
This year, we have decided to honour the winners of state-level Bal Kavi Sammelan, Drawing and Sports Competitions, and those who have cleared higher competitive examinations during the Independence Day celebrations.
Brothers and Sisters, Gujarat owes its ever strengthening foundation of development during the last fifteen years to the peace, security and unity among various sections of the society. I laud the understanding, pragmatism and wisdom of every Gujarati. It is our social responsibility to reach out to more and more people, connect with them, during celebrations of festivals and march ahead together in Gujarat’s growth-journey. It is for every Gujarati to ensure that the pride and dignity of our Gatisheel Gujarat remains intact, forever. Let us together contribute in nation-building.
On this pious occasion of Independence Day, I once again extend my greetings to all, resolve to do something for the society and take Gujarat to greater heights through collective efforts with inclusive growth.
With best wishes to one and all,
Jai Jai Garvi Gujarat, Jai Jai Garvi Gujarat
Yours truly,
Anandiben
School chale hum…
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I am sure children across the state are gearing up with new school bags, text books, uniforms and waiting to open the school-doors after the summer break. Little ones would be attending their first day to school with teary eyes, some would be waiting to reunite with friends in classrooms, and others would be looking forward to meet their favourite teachers! Every phase of this knowledge-seeking journey is momentous and memorable, isn’t it?
But pause for a moment. Think about those children who, for complex reasons, are left deprived of this joy of going to school, those who don’t get the chance to administer their right to education.
My friends, Gujarat Government is committed to this cause. Ensuring that every child of our state goes to school, reads, writes and continues to attain quality education is our utmost priority. In 2001-02, the dropout rate for elementary section in Gujarat was 20.5%. Today numbers have improved; dropout rates brought down to 2% and enrolment ratio rising to nearly 100%.
With focused approaches like Shala Praveshotsav, Kanya Kelavani and Gunotsav, we have been successful in transforming education from a privilege to making it accessible-to-all, from a burden to a grand celebration. Since 2003, government is determined to make school enrolment an annual festival, when entire state cabinet and administration visit government-run public schools across rural and urban areas on first three days of the new academic year. The field-staff surveys and identifies eligible children and convinces their parents to enroll them in school. We personally welcome children, interact with teachers and parents.
This year, I have guided the team to specially focus on cleanliness of schools and surrounding areas. I have asked to micro-analyze last year’s Gunotsav performance report of the schools they visit and guide the teachers for improvement in various parameters. Further, they will also be in touch with these schools throughout the year and closely monitor the progress.
Going one step ahead from extending basic education infrastructure, we have put in all efforts to harness the vibrant strength of children. Initiatives like state-wide drawing competition on subject of cleanliness, coaching camps for sports enthusiasts, training under Student Police Cadet program, guidance from experts under Bal Chitrakar Sammelan, exemplify our vision. Our vision is to give them an environment to sharpen their inner talents and shape up their creativity and imagination. In addition to giving roots of our culture to the younger generations, I believe that, it is also important to gift them the wings to carve their own identity.
Clean schools, quality education and skill development are the pre-requisites to the bright future of our state. Every child of Gujarat may it be from tribal, rural or border areas, should be introduced to the world of education; irrespective of gender, class or creed. And to make this dream a reality, I ask for your support.
Friends, this year’s Shala Praveshotsav and Kanya Kelavani program are being held between June 11-13 in rural areas and June 18-20 in urban areas across Gujarat. I urge you all to begin looking around you and enroll atleast one child, may it be from support-staff, or from slum areas, to a nearby public school. If they dropout, which is a bigger issue, please re-enroll them. Devote this fortnight to the cause of enrolment. If you face any difficulty, write to me. Let us together be a part of the state-wide drive to ensure 100% enrollment of children.
Write to me about your experiences of being connected to a child’s journey to school with related photos on gujshalapraveshotsav2015@gmail.com. I will share your stories on my social media network.
Waiting to hear from you.
Yours,
Anandiben
One year in the service of Gujarat
May 22, this day last year, I was privileged to get the opportunity to serve 65 million people of Gujarat as the Gujarat CM. Today as I look back on the year gone by, what satisfy me the most are the glimpses of fearlessness in eyes of women, confidence in approach of the youth and empowerment in the lives of farmers, that I have witnessed along this journey.
Today is the day to thank you all for your continued support and contribution in accelerating the growth-story of Gujarat. It’s a day to reinforce my commitment in the service of our state. It’s a day to assure you all once again, that I would not stop till our goal is reached, our goal of bringing smiles on each and every face in Gujarat; and ensure that it remains forever!
Friends, before I took charge as the CM, there was a 90-day long code of conduct across the state, which had stalled many development works. There was a need to bring the administration back to momentum, with time-bound target achievement. That is when I sowed seeds of ‘Gatisheel Gujarat’ campaign, focusing on Gujarat’s inclusive and sustainable development. First with 100-day target and then with 150-day target. The campaigns were a huge success, fully serving their purpose. We launched the third edition with year-long targets. Now this campaign has become an institutionalized mechanism for the state to grow and prosper.
More than just a mechanism, today ‘Gatisheel Gujarat’ has become a new identity of our state; enhancing the momentum in the direction carved out by Narendrabhai in past 13 years. Past one year is just a milestone in this journey, and you all, we all, are together in this! During this one year, many initiatives, decisions, announcements, policies took shape in Gujarat, covering varied sectors and people from all strata of society. You can glance at the work done by Gujarat government in last one year here www.anandibenpatel.com.
The motto behind each step taken has been the same, ‘All for one, one for all’. Friends, we are persistently working towards better last-mile delivery of our schemes, to reach out to every individual across the state. And in this journey, we seek your continued support.
It is said that for a region to develop well, either the administrative machinery has to be aware, agile and adept or the citizens. Just imagine what if both- the administration and the people have these virtues!
Yours,
Anandiben
Krishi Mahotsav: Enabling our farmers to become ‘Global Farmers’
Let me begin sharing life-story of Sindhabhai Bharwad from Surendranagar. He belonged to a cattle-rearing family, where he was also expected to join his forefathers. But Sindhabhai was always inclined towards agriculture. Taking inspiration and guidance from Krishi Mahotsav, he plunged into agriculture on 60 bigha land that he received from his forefathers. With the constant urge to learn and make use of modern technology, he upgraded his farming skills with inputs from agriculture scientists. He took assistance from various pro-farmer initiatives of state government, and engaged in cultivation of watermelons, castor and cotton.
With scientific use of drip irrigation, in no time he earned rich produces. Experimenting new ways, he tried growing watermelons in middle of castor crops, which proved successful with outcome of double the produce. Not only this, he also cultivates over 15000 tissue-cultured Eucalyptus plants. Today, Sindhabhai is a source of inspiration for many farmers in the neighborhood. The living condition of his family has improved manifolds with his success.
Dear friends, Kharif Krishi Mahotsav, celebrated across the state since last few weeks has ended. It is gratifying that like Sindhabhai, hundreds of farmers have gained guidance for modern approach to agriculture under the aegis of Krishi Mahotsav. Krishi Mahotsavs have been instrumental in transforming lives of farmers and their families forever.
I have spent my childhood amidst the fields with my family. I have witnessed my father to progress on the foundations of modern approach to agricultural practices. I have always nurtured the vision of equipping our farmers with best of modern training and technologies, and thus empowering them to grow rich produce of crops, sought-after world-wide. I envisage our farmers to be ‘Global Farmers’!
With the same motive in our minds, State Government has been organizing Kharif and Ravi Krishi Mahotsavs. Krishi Mahotsavs have become one-step solution for farmers and cattle-rearers, where they not only gain knowledge of modern practices, inputs from livestock-agriculture scientists and progressive-successful farmers ‘Krishi na Rishi’, but also get agri products like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, at subsidized rates. To expose and educate our farmers with global techniques and technology, Gujarat government has been organising International Agricultural Fair and Exhibition since last few years.
Demand of horticultural crops has been on a rise across the world today. Farmers of Gujarat have proved to be successful engaging in horticultural practices. With an aim to encourage them, we have allocated Rs 350 crore to provide assistance and technical guidance for sapling nursery, and to enhance the area and productivity of horticultural crops.
World is turning to organic farming. People have become more aware about the use of organic fertilizers and the side-effects of hazardous chemicals on crops. Gujarat farmers should excel in this new age of sustainable farming, and thus state government is planning a new Organic Farming Policy.
Pashu Aarogya Melas (animal health camps) have also been organized across the state along with Krishi Mahotsav. Modern medical treatments, best medication and advice from expert veterinary doctors are provided to cattle at these centers.
Gujarat government also encourages women in animal husbandry, by extending assistance to women milk cooperative societies to build ‘Doodh Ghar’ and to buy latest milk collection and preservation equipments.
The mammoth task of connecting Narmada waters to the remotest areas of Gujarat is incessantly progressing. The works of increasing height of Sardar Sarovar Dam is rapidly taking shape. Gujarat government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that farmers here are not helpless or dependent on rains for their crop and livelihood.
Friends, I regularly share success stories of our progressive farmers like Sindhabhai on my Facebook page and website. The idea is to encourage and inspire more farmers into our rich heritage of agriculture.
I look forward to see the rise of ‘Global Farmers of Gujarat’.
Yours,
Anandiben
On Gujarat Gaurav Divas, come, let us have a dream today
Today on the foundation day of our beloved state, ‘Gujarat Gaurav Divas’ I convey my heartiest wishes to all of you. I bow down to those visionary leaders of that time who earned us an individual identity, a separate state of ‘Gujarat’.
Today when I look back at the years gone-by, a number of memorable and not-so-memorable events flash in front of my eyes. On one hand we have happy memoirs of triumphant Industrial Revolution, White Revolution and Green Revolution in the backdrop, we boast of a new era of Gujarat on the rise under the aegis of Narendrabhai. On the other, we have bitter memories of devastating drought, floods and earthquake. But no matter what, the spirit of Gujarat and Gujaratis has always remained immortal. With progressive mindset, Gujarat has always rescued itself, galvanized itself to return to normalcy. I salute the sense of courage, culture, dignity, unity and pragmatism of each Gujarati.
Friends, today on Gujarat Gaurav Divas, let us together have a dream, a dream for Gujarat’s development journey. In this age, the whole world has chosen to be a part of the rat’s race for ‘development’. As a general perception, we look westward when we aspire for development. We have forgotten to value our heritage, our legacy. I believe that in Gujarat of our dreams, we should take pride in bonding with our roots. Our strong and rich foundation is where we truly belong.
Gujarat government is striving to harness the potential of technology and modern infrastructure in the collective progress of our villages, towns and cities. With the vision of Government of India, we have welcomed the concept of ‘smart’ cities in our state. At the same time we are working towards rurban – urban amenities in rural areas. We are making all efforts to recast the landscape of our state with latest amenities and infrastructure.
But, pause and think. Can Gujarat’s progress be scaled merely on the measures of brick and mortar or on the latest versions of our gadgets? Is that how we envision Gujarat of our dreams?
While we move ahead in our journey towards development, let us determine to stay rooted. Let us remind each other to take our morals, our value system along with us. Let us not get blinded by tangible wealth, rather prioritize on true happiness. Only then will we be able to carve a golden future for our beloved state.
We don’t need to and should not ape the west in deciding our goals, our journey ahead. Let us conceptualise our homes, roads, villages, cities, technology as per our own needs. Let us value our art, celebrate our festivals and promote our sports in a way that the world would look up to! Conserve our heritage architecture and preserve our handicrafts. Innovate and invent technology as an answer to achieve inclusive development. Let us focus on a life with good health and peace of mind.
West, of course has its own strength, mainly in the areas of science and technology. Let us redefine our inherent strengths by blending them with those.
This is my dream. And I strongly believe that we are capable to build a Gujarat of our dreams.
Fifty years ago, Martin Luther King Jr gave an address ‘I have a dream’ that resonates even today. It deeply inspires us to have a dream for our state, our country.
Today on the foundation day of our beloved state, let us have a dream today, dream of a glorious Gujarat. And then, together work towards shaping ‘Gujarat of our dreams’.
Yours,
Anandiben
You are more than just ‘home-maker’ you are a ‘nation maker’
In my series of blogs on Budget, after the first one on child development, today I am sharing my thoughts on empowering women. And how the new state Budget facilitates handholding ‘nari shakti’.
If we, as a state, wish to take Gujarat to the next milestone of development, then it is inevitable for us to work together towards uplifting women power. The state government has taken all initiatives in this direction. The new Budget continues the tradition of Gender Budget, with a total provision of Rs 47,845 crore to propel women empowerment. This includes individual beneficiary oriented schemes as well as infrastructural and community developmental schemes. There are 132 schemes that have 100% allocation for women. In addition, other 461 schemes have allocations for women in various proportions.
With a view to raise the female literacy rate in Gujarat, an allocation of Rs 28.25 crores have been made in the Budget for Vidhya Lakshmi Scheme. Villages having a literacy rate lower than 35% and the BPL families in the urban areas are covered under this scheme, where Narmada Shri Nidhi Bond of Rs 1000 is given to the girls enrolled in class 1. When the girl finishes primary education, the entire amount of the bond is given to her along with the interest. An amount of Rs 2000 is given to the girls when enrolled for secondary education, which is then given to her once she clears class 10.
Also, an allocation of over Rs 100 crore has been allocated for establishing government hostels wherein girls students of class 11 till post-graduation are provided with free lodging and boarding facilities.
It is very important for the state that its tribal and rural women are engaged in various economic activities, and so it becomes vital to take steps for their skill development. A step in this direction, basic training in computer and Information Technology is provided at 716 centres and various short term training courses are also made available at 500 Kaushalya Vardhan Kendras across the state. Rs 20.34 crores are allocated for the same in the new Budget.
It is always heartwarming to see women engaged in cattle-rearing and agricultural activities. Financial aid of Rs 40.56 crore is provided by the state government to women for purchasing milch animals and milking machines. Also, a special effort is made under Mission Mangalam scheme to provide skill upgradation training to women and empower them financially through Sakhi Mandals. This year, Rs 36.13 crore have been allocated for the same.
It is important to ensure that women’s health is given prime priority in every section of our society. Supporting this, SABLA scheme for health and nutrition of women is implemented in nine districts of Gujarat.
We, as state government, believe in safeguarding safety and speedy justice for women. There are provisions in the Budget for setting up of Nari Adalats across Gujarat. Also, it has been decided to expand the reach of 181 Abhayam helpline for women across the state
As a significant step towards ensuring secured life through pension fund, provision to cover 3 lakh women of Self Help Groups under National Swavalamban Scheme has been provided in the new Budget.
Dear friends, I envision our state to prosper on the foundations of women empowerment. The new Budget has many such provisions that supports this ideology. Gujarat should progress to be a state where women get all the opportunities to rise above and prove their caliber. I want all the women of Gujarat to realize their ability to be a ‘nation maker’, and not just a ‘home-maker’. I wish that Gujarat shall be known world-over as a state that gives due respect, safety, economic and social security to women. Wouldn’t it be a matter of real pride for us, as a state, to boast of such an identity?
Yours
Anandi Patel
Tell me how children are nurtured in your State, and I shall tell your State’s future
You would be coming across news related to the ongoing Budget Session of Gujarat Legislative Assembly. Unending debates and discussions continue to occupy the prime time on news channels and front pages of newspapers. I understand this may not interest
I understand that this may not be of much interest to the common citizens. But is the Budget only about mere dry numbers? I felt the urge to write to you, may be a series of blogs, with the motive to share with you some simplified details of the Budget. I feel it would be interesting to know about the Budget, and understand the direction and pace of our developmental journey and partner it. I wish to bring to the fore the smiles on faces of common men and women, that have come alongside the new Budget.
I will begin with the subject closest to my heart and that is child development. I strongly believe how we nurture our children mirrors the future of the state. As a teacher, a grandmother myself, it is gratifying to ensure that children, specially to those belonging to weaker sections of the society, getting equal rights to education and nutritious food. I feel happy to share with you that a new initiative in the state Budget will now provide hot meals straight from centralized kitchen to aanganwadi children in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat and Rajkot districts. Also, Doodh Sanjivani Yojana has been extended to all tribal talukas that will facilitate milk to aanganwadi children there.
Over 500 existing kitchens will be modernized under the new Budget that will guarantee nutritious food for the children. A total provision of over Rs 966 crore has been allocated towards implementing Mid Day Meal scheme in more than 35,000 primary schools of the state.
Education travels beyond boundaries and schools extend beyond any walls. No child should be restricted from having the best education facilities. With a view to provide free of cost education to children of the poor studying in private primary schools, state already provides an assistance of upto Rs 10,000 per child towards fees in certain cases. It is now proposed to provide an additional amount of Rs 3000 per child for uniform, shoes, school bag and ancillary facilities to 43,000 children, over Rs 55 crore has been provided for the same.
To ensure that talented children belonging to poor families may not be deprived of the scope of higher education, it is proposed to create a corpus fund of Rs 1000 crore within the next four years to expand Chief Minister Scholarship Scheme. It is proposed to augment the Fund by Rs 300 crore in the coming year. Ten new colleges will be set up in talukas not having a single college and a new university, to cater to tribal areas in the eastern belt of the state. I cannot wait to see tribal children taking benefit of pre-metric scholarships that have been almost doubled in all standards. Also, maintenance grant for students in Ashram Shalas has been increased by 50%.
Along with education, inculcating good habits, manners and lessons of good conduct in the young generation is vital for nation-building. Initiatives like Gunotsav, Gyan Saptah, Student Police Cadet and Shala Praveshotsav by the state government focus in the same direction. Children can also prove to be a huge driving force for this movement of ‘Swachh Gujarat, Swachh Bharat’. A grant of Rs 21,600 per annum is provided to around 33,000 primary schools for the purpose of maintenance and cleanliness. Also, under the new Budget, Cleanliness Kits will be made available in the schools to engage children and schools in the Swachhata Abhiyaan.
Smiles on faces of little children and its impact on nation’s future are immeasurable, beyond any tangible targets and outlays.
I wish to see every child of my state happy, educated and a part of Gujarat’s success story.
Yours
Anandi Patel
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