Finance
Union Rural Development and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Friday that the upcoming National Rural Development Conference 2026 aims to make the vision of “Viksit Gram, Viksit Bharat” a reality by bringing together states and the Centre to chart a common roadmap for inclusive and sustainable rural development.
The two-day conference will bring together Rural Development Ministers from all States and Union Territories, senior government officials, policymakers and subject experts to discuss on the future roadmap for rural India and examine the implementation of major flagship projects
Chouhan described the conference as a significant step toward attaining the vision of “Viksit Gram, Viksit Bharat,” stating that it attempts to build a shared strategy for rural transformation by bringing the Centre and States together on a single platform. He stated that the discussions would focus on improving village-level planning, guaranteeing effective resource utilization, and advancing inclusive and sustainable rural development.
The conference will assess the implementation and progress of major rural development schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission, rural skill development programs, and the National Social Assistance Programme.
According to the minister, the discussions will also include the successful implementation of the VB-GRAMG Act, 2025, as well as the improvement of planning processes at the Gram Panchayat level. He stated that the event is meant to serve as a national forum for sharing experiences, addressing grassroots concerns, and proposing meaningful policy initiatives.
Rural Development Ministers from all states and union territories will attend the conference, which will be a major feature. Senior officials from the central and state governments, as well as experts from rural development programs, will take part in the discussions.
Several topical and breakout seminars are scheduled on topics such as rural housing, road connections, livelihoods, skill development, and social security. Successful projects and creative practices from various jurisdictions will be highlighted to encourage replication throughout the country.
Special attention will be placed on the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ project, with discussions centered on women’s economic empowerment through Self-Help Groups, rural business promotion, and job expansion. The conference will also look into measures to improve skill development and market access for rural youth.
Source: IANS
