The Madhya Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, has announced a comprehensive recruitment drive aimed at filling 100,000 vacant government posts by December 2024. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting held on October 22, marking a significant step towards addressing the state’s employment needs. Additionally, the government announced that all state employees will receive their salaries on the 28th of this month.
Support for minor rape victims
In a compassionate move, the cabinet has allocated a fund of Rs 10 lakh to each district collector to provide essential support for minor rape victims who become pregnant. This initiative is designed to ensure that both the victim and the child are supported throughout their recovery and development. The fund will be used for several key purposes:
1. Child Care Units: Establishing dedicated units for the care of children born as a result of sexual assault.
2. Counseling: Providing psychological counselling to help victims recover from mental trauma.
3. Education Continuity: Ensuring that the education of these girls is not interrupted.
4. Vocational Training Support: Offering financial assistance of Rs 4,000 per month to those opting for vocational training, with the support continuing until they turn 23 or secure employment.
Health department to recruit 7,900 personnel
Deputy Chief Minister and Public Health Minister Rajendra Shukla also highlighted the government’s plans for the health sector. Of the 100,000 positions to be filled, 7,900 will be in the health department. These vacancies will be filled through the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Employee Selection Board, with a focus on strengthening the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
Shukla also provided updates on the Ujjain Simhastha 2028 preparations, which received the cabinet’s backing as part of the government’s forward-looking projects.
Expansion of anganwadi centres
In another major development, the cabinet approved the upgrade of 12,670 mini Anganwadi centres to full-fledged centres. Along with this, 12,670 assistant and 476 supervisor posts will be created, at an annual cost of Rs 213 crore, with the state government contributing Rs 179 crore and the central government providing Rs 34 crore.
Major investments and Rewa airport operations
Highlighting the state’s industrial growth, Deputy CM Shukla announced that a Regional Industry Conclave would be held in Rewa, focusing on sectors such as cement, power, solar energy, and tourism. The conclave is expected to attract major industrial players, including Reliance, Hindalco, Patanjali, and the Dalmia Group, with over 4,000 registrations already confirmed. Additionally, the cabinet discussed the upcoming operationalisation of Rewa Airport, where the cost of air travel is expected to be cheaper than a three-tier AC train ticket.
Administrative reorganisation on the horizon
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav revealed plans for a large-scale administrative reorganisation. The Reorganisation Commission, which was proposed in March 2024, will begin its work in November, focusing on restructuring divisions, sub-divisions, districts, tehsils, and development blocks. Public and elected representatives will have the opportunity to submit suggestions and representations to the commission during a four- to six-month window, allowing for community input in shaping the state’s administrative boundaries.
Jitu Patwari criticises Government’s approach
State Congress President Jitu Patwari voiced his concerns regarding the government’s measures. “I have learned that the government is making decisions based on High Court and Supreme Court judgments, and while it is commendable that they are committed to protecting children born from rape victims, this doesn’t address the root issue—how will rapes stop?” he asked, critiquing the government’s failure to focus on prevention.
Patwari further remarked, “The Mohan government and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aren’t prioritising the safety and security of our daughters. There are neither adequate resources nor enough female police officers. The police force itself is only at 50 per cent of its required strength, and recruitment for female officers is woefully lacking.”
