Date:05/11/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/11/05/stories/2006110510010300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Dindigul

Shed inhibitions, panchayat chiefs told

Staff Reporter

Women presidents must act independently: Collector

DINDIGUL: Women presidents must act independently and tackle all issues diligently without interference of any persons. They must shed all inhibitions. They should be outspoken and express ideas and concerns boldly without fear or favour, keeping in mind only the welfare of rural people, said the Collector, R. Vasuki.

Addressing a special training session for presidents and vice-presidents of town panchayats held at the Collectorate here on Saturday, she said that the district administration would extend all necessary help to the presidents in running the council.

Top priority should be given for solid waste management to keep the town clean and tidy. Awareness of prevention of water wastage and safe disposal of solid wastes should be created among people, as community participation would help speedy and effective implementation of schemes.

"It is a rare opportunity, you must utilise properly and serve the people and solving their grievances, she said.

Detailing funds allocated for various panchayats, Ms. Vasuki said Rs.10 lakh each had been allocated for drinking water schemes for Thadikombu, Iyyalur, Kannivadi, and Chithayankottai town panchayats and Rs.10 lakhs for construction of bridge in Kannivadi.

Of the total allocation of 1.27 crores for 24 town panchayats from the 12th Finance Commission grant, 50 per cent would be spent on solid waste management, 20 per cent on road connectivity, 20 per cent for drainage facilities and 10 per cent for electricity charges.

Proper planning was necessary for creating financial resources for regular flow of funds and creating public properties.

The District Revenue Officer, M. Fernandez, the DRDA Project Officer, P. Ponnaiah and the Assistant Director of Town Panchayats, R. Chinnasamy, spoke on panchayat administration and various schemes.