Cabinet Decisions Under Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav’s Leadership
Bhopal: Tuesday, December 10, 2024,
In a major policy-driven meeting chaired by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet approved several initiatives to enhance agricultural productivity, upgrade energy infrastructure, and boost higher education in the state.
Incentives for Paddy Milling in Kharif Marketing Year 2023-24
The Cabinet approved incentives and upgradation funds for paddy milling in the state during the 2023-24 Kharif Marketing Year. Key highlights of this decision include:
- Milling Charges: ₹10 per quintal.
- Incentive Amount: ₹50 per quintal.
- Upgradation Incentives:
- ₹40 per quintal for 20% paddy allocation to the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
- ₹120 per quintal for 40% paddy allocation to FCI.
This measure aims to expedite the milling process for paddy procured from farmers, ensuring timely supply of rice under the Public Distribution System (PDS) and other welfare schemes. Additionally, surplus rice beyond state requirements will be quickly contributed to the central pool.
Approval for State Funding in Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS)
The Cabinet approved a significant decision to provide 40% of the state’s share—approximately ₹6,000 crore—as equity or grants instead of loans to electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
Objectives of the Scheme:
- Upgrading electricity distribution infrastructure.
- Reducing transmission losses.
- Modernizing and strengthening the power distribution system.
The Cabinet also resolved to convert the previously provided state loan amount under RDSS into equity for DISCOMs. Additionally, the SGST share on central funding will be given as grants, facilitating faster implementation of smart meters across the state.
About RDSS:
The scheme, launched by the Central Government, aims to develop an efficient and financially sustainable power distribution sector to ensure reliable electricity supply. Key provisions include:
- 15% Central Grant for prepaid smart meters and system metering.
- 60% Central Grant for electricity infrastructure development.
- The remaining 40% state share to be provided as equity or grants by the Madhya Pradesh government.
This initiative will accelerate the rollout of smart meters, ensuring better energy management and reliable power for consumers.
Approval for the Prime Minister’s Higher Education Programme (PM-USHA)
The Cabinet granted in-principle approval to operate the Prime Minister’s Higher Education Programme (PM-USHA) in Madhya Pradesh. This program is an extension of the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) Phase 1.0 and 2.0, initiated by the Ministry of Education in 2013.
Key Components of PM-USHA:
- Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs).
- Grants for University Strengthening.
- Grants for College Strengthening.
- Initiatives for Gender Inclusivity and Equality.
The scheme focuses on providing financial assistance to higher education institutions in a phased manner. It aims to bolster the educational infrastructure, improve access to quality education, and promote inclusivity across universities and colleges in the state.
Conclusion
These strategic decisions reflect the Madhya Pradesh government’s commitment to enhancing agriculture, energy, and education sectors. While the incentives for paddy milling promise timely benefits for farmers, the focus on modernizing power distribution ensures improved services for citizens. The PM-USHA program, on the other hand, underscores the government’s dedication to fostering innovation and inclusivity in higher education, shaping the state’s future workforce.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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