Rajasthan CM Gehlot turns 62, recommits to work for people of the state

New Delhi/Jaipur, May 4 (ANI): Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot turned 62 on May 3, and used the occasion to rededicate and recommit himself to the task of working for the development of the state and the welfare of its people.

True to his Gandhian image, Gehlot kept away from extravagance and lavish celebrations on Thursday.

Widely regarded as a statesman and a visionary, Gehlot, known for his simplicity and adherence to Gandhian values, has emerged stronger during his second stint as chief minister as a result of his historic decisions for people's welfare, and his matchless efforts in bringing a smile to every single face.

Gehlot's second term in office has witnessed an unparalleled drive for bringing probity in public life and ensuring rights to each citizen.

His eagerness to serve the poor and the downtrodden and the rare blend of sensitivity to the plight of those in distress has generated prayers from the common people for his long and healthy life.

During his first tenure as chief minister between 1998 and 2003, Gehlot dealt with a number of challenges. He successfully handled drought management, power generation, infrastructure development, employment generation, industrial and tourism promotion, financial management and good governance.

The unique slogan, Paani Bachao, Bijli Bachao, Sabko Padhao (Save Water, Save Electricity, Educate All), coined by him became so popular that even the opposition could not find fault with his approach for governance.

The relief works undertaken during the worst drought of the century in his first tenure were praised by policy planners across the country. He personally monitored the relief operations to ensure that the drought-affected people have stocks of more wheat with them than they could get from their crops.

During his second term, which commenced from December 13, 2008, the state government has initiated an ambitious action plan for extending much-needed support to the weaker sections of society, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, minorities, women, labourers, etc., along with strengthening the basic infrastructure in all sectors.

Gehlot has also guided the state's bureaucracy to simplify administrative procedures, ensure speedy disposal of public grievances and introduce e-governance at all levels for effective administration.

Along with the adoption of new concepts of development in the crucial sectors, priority has been accorded to efficient financial and administrative management in order to accelerate integrated, balanced and sustainable development.

Gehlot should be creditted for evolving a new paradigm for development at a time when the desert state is preparing for utilization of central government allocations for the 12th Five Year Plan in order to scale new heights and set an example before other states.

Shedding the earlier tags of poverty, deprivation and backwardness, Rajasthan ranks today among the frontline states extending the benefits of development to its population.

The flagship schemes for housing for the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and distribution of free medicines to every patient visiting the out patient department (OPD) of government hospitals are a manifestation of Gehlot's pro-people approach.

Recently, he mingled with ordinary people at a tea kiosk while returning from a programme marking Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary.

Depicting a rare sensitivity, he visited the home of a man who tried to attack him at a public hearing and provided help to his family after ascertaining the cause of his distress. In another instance, he visited a seven-year-old victim of rape in the hospital and arranged for her proper medical treatment.

Gehlot's resolute commitment for a clean and transparent public life is visible through a stringent law to control corruption in government offices.

Farmers in Rajasthan have benefited immensely from Gehlot's decision not to increase power tariff.

The weather-based crop insurance scheme, the national agriculture insurance scheme and the schemes for short-term and long-term crop loans have brought relief to lakhs of farmers.

The generously funded Mukhya Mantri BPL Jeevan Rakash Kosh for medical treatment has also provided a great deal of help to the deprived sections of society.

The concept of social security for the poor has acquired a new meaning through an affordable housing policy for urban areas.

Over 15,100 families will benefit from it in 15 towns of the state. Besides, the Indira Awas Yojana and Rajiv Awas Yojana are being executed in Rajasthan at a fast pace to provide housing benefits to the poor people at affordable costs. (ANI)