K'taka CM calls for reforms in Panchayat Raj Admn

Bangalore, Oct 16: Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumarswamy today called for necessary reforms in Panchayat Raj administration for faster development of rural areas in the state.

Addressing a State-legal Panchayat Council meeting here, he said that "in the present system it may not be possible to achieve development even in the next 100 years." Mr Kumaraswamy said that during his recent visit to villages many complaints were received about not getting benefits of welfare schemes launched for their benefit. "We have failed to identify persons who are really eligible for the benefits under the welfare schemes." he added.

Stating that the Council meeting was held after a gap of seven years, he urged the participants including representatives from Zilla, Taluk and Gram Panchayats to discuss about steps to be taken identify the real needy.

Mr Kumarswamy said that the government is spending about Rs 750 crore this year to provide drinking water in the rural areas.

UNI