Union Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad has encouraged Meghalaya to enhance financial inclusion, particularly in the hilly terrain, by increasing the reach of banks through the establishment of additional branches.
Karad was in Ampati, South West Garo Hills district to assess the progress of implementation of various government schemes. He said discussions with the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma revealed the existence of bank correspondents, and efforts will be made to open more branches to serve the region effectively.
During the review meeting the minister was briefed on the progress and achievements as well as the challenges faced in implementation of various central flagship schemes through a powerpoint presentation by ADC Dr. Rezina Ch Marak with the participation of the officials of concerned lined departments.
He expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of various schemes in the district, emphasising the need for collective efforts to foster development in the Northeast region.
The Minister underscored the importance of improving healthcare services, focusing on increasing the accessibility of quality generic medicines and boosting AnteNatal Checkup and Institutional delivery percentages. He encouraged the registration of pregnant women for the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, providing financial incentives for institutional delivery.
He also emphasised the importance of promoting government-backed schemes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, offering affordable accident insurance and acknowledged the progress of the Jal Jeevan Mission in the district while calling for increased awareness and improved implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Aawas Yojana.
The Minister also assured to explore the possibility of opening more Eklavya Model Residential Schools to provide quality education to tribal students in remote areas.
As part of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra campaign, the minister interacted with beneficiaries to raise awareness and ensure the saturation of government schemes across the country. The campaign aims to reach the unreached, particularly those eligible for various schemes but yet to avail benefits.
He had a one-on-one interaction with few of the beneficiaries present and sought to know their feedback on the availing the schemes as well as the problems they faced in availing them.
During the interaction, Tura MP Agatha Sangma and MLA, Subir Marak assured to take up the problems and work in tandem the centre and the state.
Karad also visited Ampati Civil Hospital and met with medical professionals and discussed crucial enhancements for the health care system. He emphasised the importance of filling vacant posts within the hospital to ensure optimal patient care.
Recognising the urgent need for surgical interventions in the region, he encouraged the medical staff to initiate surgeries promptly when required.
