Punjab CM Mann Hikes Sarpanch Honorarium to Rs 10,000 Per Month Ahead of Local Body Polls

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday announced that the monthly honorarium for village sarpanchs will be increased from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000 , effective August 15 , in a major boost for grassroots representatives ahead of the state's local body elections scheduled early next year.

Addressing a 'Sarpanch Milni' programme, Mann called upon village heads to work beyond parochial interests and dedicate themselves to the holistic development of villages . He urged sarpanchs to ensure the transparent utilisation of public funds , eliminate groupism , promote communal harmony , and lead campaigns to make villages drug-free, clean, green and pollution-free .

Describing panchayats as the foundation of democracy , the chief minister said nearly 70 per cent of India's population resides in villages , making panchayati raj institutions vital for implementing government welfare and development schemes at the grassroots level.

Mann said while the state government formulates policies, sarpanchs and panchs play a crucial role in translating them into action . He appealed to village heads to rededicate themselves to development works and ensure effective supervision of projects undertaken through panchayats.

Highlighting the government's commitment to rural development, Mann said grants are being provided for public works under the direct supervision of panchayats. He cautioned sarpanchs against any undue interference in development projects and said factionalism had hampered progress in many villages in the past.

The chief minister also took a swipe at previous governments, claiming they had promised higher honorariums for sarpanchs but failed to implement them. He said that once elected, a sarpanch represents the entire village , regardless of electoral divisions, and should work in the interest of all residents.

The announcement is likely to carry political significance as Punjab prepares for local body polls next year , with the ruling government seeking to strengthen its outreach among elected representatives at the village level.