New Delhi, June 26 (IANS) Union Rural Development and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday said the upcoming National Rural Development Conference 2026 aims to translate the vision of “Viksit Gram, Viksit Bharat” into 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 deliberate on the future roadmap for rural India and review the implementation of key flagship programmes.

Describing the conference as a major step towards realizing the vision of “Viksit Gram, Viksit Bharat”, Chouhan said the event aims to create a shared strategy for rural transformation by bringing the Centre and the States together on a common platform. He said the discussions would focus on strengthening village-level planning, ensuring efficient utilisation of resources and accelerating inclusive and sustainable rural development.

The conference will review the implementation and progress of major rural development schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission, rural skill development programmes and the National Social Assistance Programme.

According to the minister, the deliberations will also focus on the effective implementation of the VB-GRAMG Act, 2025, and strengthening planning processes at the Gram Panchayat level. He said the event is intended to serve as a national platform for sharing experiences, addressing grassroots challenges and developing practical policy interventions.

A key highlight of the conference will be the participation of Rural Development Ministers from all States and Union Territories. Senior officials from both the Centre and State governments, along with experts associated with rural development programmes, will also participate in the discussions.

Several thematic and breakout sessions have been planned on subjects such as rural housing, road connectivity, livelihoods, skill development and social security. Successful initiatives and innovative practices from different states will be showcased to encourage their replication across the country.

Special emphasis will be laid on the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, with discussions focusing on women’s economic empowerment through Self-Help Groups, promotion of rural entrepreneurship and expansion of employment opportunities. The conference will also examine ways to strengthen skill development and market linkages for rural youth.

–IANS

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