Darjeeling MP Raju Bista said today that following the interim budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the central government has introduced a new tourism policy aimed at promoting domestic tourism, including Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars areas. He said it would benefit the region.
“The focus on branding, marketing and long-term interest-free financing for the state will facilitate the comprehensive development of the iconic tourism center. Address the lack of adequate health facilities in areas such as Darjeeling and Kalimpong To do so, the Center plans to convert the existing hospital into a medical college,” Darjeeling MP Raju Bista claimed.
Bista also said, “In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Vikshit Bharat – a developed India by 2047,' this Budget has earmarked a hefty capital investment of Rs 11.11 billion for next year. He also said that This will encourage the development of infrastructure, roads, highways, railways, airports and health facilities, consistent with the government's focus on results and addressing social inequalities. This will be of great benefit to areas like Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars, which have been deliberately disenfranchised by the state government. ”
“Our government plans to build 3 billion new houses under the PM Awas Gramin scheme and another 2 billion houses under the PMAY-G scheme. The benefits will also be ensured to people living in rural areas,'' he added, adding, “Next year, the Ayushman Bharat coverage will be extended to all ASHAs, Anganwadi workers and helpers. This will benefit thousands of ASHA workers and helpers in Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars regions.”
Notably, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, on behalf of the Anganwadi workers of Darjeeling LS constituency, appealed to Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani regarding the old adoption norms for promoting ICDS and ASHA karmis. He expressed his gratitude for the positive response to the request for continuation. .
Asked for comment, Bista said, “I highlighted that panchayat elections have not been held in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts for a long time and as a result, the appointment of anganwadi members has been frozen. Regardless, the Anganwadi helpers and assistants recruited during this period have shown exemplary dedication over a period of 17-18 years and have gained extensive experience in their roles.
