Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, Harsh Sanghavi has embarked on a two-day tour of villages in the India-Pakistan border region to understand the development, security, and infrastructure of the region besides being directly in touch with the locals. The trip, which mainly aims at getting to know the life and hardships of the people residing along the border includes an stay in a traditional village hut, a gesture that is meant to feel what life on the rural setting is like.
Sanghavi who was promoted as the Deputy Chief Minister last month besides holding the Home portfolio has ordered all the senior officials who have been accompanying him to do the same rather than remaining in government circuit houses or hotels. This initiative, according to an official release, aims at making sure that the officers acquire authentic experience in local culture, lifestyle, and realities on the ground to support the framing of more effective policies.
“I will review various sections as highlighted by the healthcare, education, infrastructure, sanitation, and above all the security. An additional meeting will also be planned with the Border Security Force (BSF) representatives to address the issue of cross-border threats, anti-national actions, and patrolling systems. Such exchanges are likely to give a better understanding of the situation on the security front and the working requirements along the sensitive border.”
Sanghavi made prayers on the first day of his tour in the historic Maa Ashapura Temple at the Mata No Madh at Lakhpat taluka of Kutch district, which is next to the international border with Pakistan. He has a staff of 30 senior IPS officers with him with each being required to visit two villages in detail and interact with the inhabitants at the grassroots.
Sanghavi and his team will meet sarpanchs, leaders of community, and villagers during the visit and get their feedback and address their local issues. Night walks are also scheduled to be held open to get a better understanding of the issues that border communities are facing and how to improve government access.