In a significant move aimed at accelerating grassroots development and promoting sustainable water management, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has announced an increase in the annual grant for each Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) to ₹2.50 crore. Out of this, ₹50 lakh will be specifically allocated for water conservation and rainwater harvesting under the central government’s ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign.
The announcement, seen as a major boost to local infrastructure and environmental sustainability efforts, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047.
“This decision is a step towards strengthening local development and supporting critical initiatives like water conservation. It empowers legislators to take up meaningful projects in their constituencies while addressing long-term ecological concerns,” an official release stated.
The 'Catch the Rain' campaign, initiated by the Central government, emphasizes the importance of rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, particularly in regions prone to water scarcity. With ₹50 lakh earmarked exclusively for this purpose, MLAs can now undertake targeted initiatives such as building check dams, rooftop harvesting structures, and rejuvenating traditional water bodies.
