Port Blair, Dec. 8: The urban areas witnessed the commencement of the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra’, originating from Port Blair Municipal Council Ward No. 1 & 2. This Government of India initiative, recognized as one of the most extensive outreach campaigns, debuted today, with its launch from Ward No. 1. The day marked the official inauguration of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in the urban domain.
The IEC Van was ceremoniously flagged off by Smt. S. Selvi, Chairperson, PBMC and Shri Dilkhush Meena, IAS, Secretary, PBMC. Starting from the Municipal Council HQ premises, the van embarked on its journey, accompanied by a captivating band performance by students from Govt. Boys Senior Secondary School, Port Blair. It received a warm welcome at the first stop, the Community Hall in Haddo, Ward No. 1, followed by a similar reception at Ward No. 2, Haddo, with flowers by the Ward Councillor, officials, and residents.
The primary objective of this Yatra is to establish connections, raise awareness and enlighten individuals about the advantages of welfare schemes such as clean drinking water, PM SVANidhi, PMAY, Ayushman Bharat and NCD screening. Jan Bhagidari events were organized in both the Wards, allowing beneficiaries of schemes like PM SVANidhi, PMAY and Ayushman Bharat to share their personal success stories. The event also saw the enthusiastic participation of Chairperson, Secretary, PBMC, Ward Councillors, general public and officials from various Departments.
At Ward No. 1, the Secretary PBMC, elaborated on the Yatra’s significance as an effective medium to engage with the public, disseminating awareness regarding diverse welfare schemes and Central Government policies. He stressed the imperative need for their efficient implementation among beneficiaries, administering the Sankalp Pledge to the attendees.
Several Departments, including PBMC, India Oil Corporation, Directorate of Health Services, A & N Cooperative Banks, State Bank of India, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, actively participated by setting up stalls to inform about their schemes. Beneficiaries from these Departments shared success stories through ‘Meri Kahani Meri Zubani’, aiming to inspire others to benefit from these schemes. Cultural programs by PBMC’s Swachchtha Awareness Team and a Health Camp by the Health Department offering health screenings added value to the yatra. The Council also felicitated the Best Safaimitras from the sanitation and other Best Workers were awarded with mementos. Ayushman Cards were distributed to the newly enrolled beneficiaries on the spot.
The van later moved to Ward No. 2 in the evening, receiving a warm reception from the Ward Councillor and residents. Videos on Viksit Bharat shared by the GoI was screened and the Sankalp Pledge was administered. While welcoming the gathering, the Ward Councillor emphasized the Yatra’s importance and encouraged participation to gain its benefits. Successful beneficiaries shared their stories to motivate others. Cultural programs continued, while comprehensive details about schemes like PM SVANidhi, PMAY, AMRUT, Ayushman Bharat, etc. were provided, aiming to ensure every eligible citizen could access these benefits. The Council also acknowledged the exceptional contributions of sanitation and water supply workers.
