The Arvind Kejriwal government is set to launch its ambitious scheme of decentralization through Mohalla Sabhas. (File Photo)
The Arvind Kejriwal government is set to launch its ambitious scheme of decentralization through Mohalla Sabhas. Today, the cabinet announced the formation of 2,972 Mohalla Sabhas across 70 assembly constituencies of Delhi.
The government had conducted a pilot project of Mohalla Sabhas in 11 districts last year. Under it, the idea is to empower the citizens to discuss, deliberate and decide on works to be undertaken in their locality.
The residents were given the power to take decisions under Citizen's Local Area Development fund or Swaraj Nidhi for developmental works in their areas.
Delhi Finance Minister Manish Sisodia announced that Rs 350 crore will be provided under the Citizen LAD scheme for 2016-17, which will be equally distributed among the Mohalla Sabhas.
These local bodies will coordinate with different government agencies for the execution of developmental works; help with social sector schemes like old age pension; and solve local grievances with the help of local officers.
Also, institutions including schools, anganwadis and PDS shops will be made accountable to the Mohalla Sabhas.