The Vadodara District Planning Board has approved development projects worth Rs 16 crore under its 15 per cent discretionary provision, along with an additional Rs 2.5 crore for municipal initiatives, the board announced Friday. The decision was made during a meeting held at the Collector’s Office and chaired by Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi.

Speaking at the meeting, Sanghavi stressed the importance of completing all projects on schedule while maintaining quality standards. “It is essential that development projects meet the required standards and are executed on time,” he said, highlighting the board’s commitment to accountable and efficient local governance.

The meeting also included a review of the progress of previously sanctioned works, ensuring that ongoing projects remain on track. The District Planning Board, constituted by the state government, oversees the allocation of grants recommended by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).

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Under the board’s protocol, the in-charge Minister serves as Chairman, the District Panchayat President as Vice-Chairman, and the Collector as Co-Vice-Chairman. Proposed projects are processed through the board and approved by the Taluka Planning Board, ensuring active participation of elected representatives in local development decisions.

The newly approved projects span multiple sectors, including 69 rural roads, 86 paved blocks, 63 water supply schemes, 40 local development works, 83 land conservation projects, 9,494 housing units, 12 primary education initiatives, and 27 nutrition-related programs. State Minister Dr. Manisha Vakil, MP Dr. Hemang Joshi, Collector Dr. Anil Dhamelia, MLAs, senior officials, and presidents of local Panchayats and Municipalities also attended the meeting.

Following the approvals, Sanghavi noted, “By participating in the Vadodara District Planning Board meeting for the year 2026-27, we approved the district’s current year plans and discussed future development projects with the concerned officials, providing necessary directions to ensure that the citizens of Vadodara district receive maximum benefits.” The board’s decisions are expected to significantly boost infrastructure, housing, and social development across the district while ensuring accountability and the active involvement of elected representatives in project implementation.

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