Centre offers help for Narmada rehabilitation

Bhopal, May 19 (UNI) The Centre has assured ''all possible'' support to the Madhya Pradesh government for the rehabilitation of the people displaced by the Sardar Sarovar project on the Narmada river.

Planning Commission member Dr B L Mungekar offered the Central assistance during his meeting with Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan here today.

Dr Mungekar, who inquired about the rehabilitation of the dam oustees, appreciated the state's rehabilitation policy saying the state government was fully committed to ''complete rehabilitation'' of the affected families.

Mr Chouhan said the oustees had been given liberal compensation package to enable them purchase land of their choice. All basic facilities had been provided at the rehabilitation sites, he added.

Dr Mungekar, who also sought details about economic planning, strategies and expected cooperation from the Centre, suggested diversification of farm sector to make the economy more vibrant. He also appreciated the state's initiative for conservation and creation of water bodies under the 'Jal Abhishek' campaign with people's cooperation.

UNI SP YA HS1553