August 2, 2025: The state government has constituted a 23-member high-level committee to enhance the condition of farm and village roads, addressing the long-standing challenges farmers face in transporting agricultural produce. Chaired by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the committee has been formed in response to a promise made by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the monsoon session of the Legislative Assembly on July 11. The initiative seeks to tackle the inadequacies of rural infrastructure, which have adversely impacted agricultural productivity and farmer livelihoods.
The committee includes Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Jayakumar Gore, Minister for Employment Guarantee Scheme Bharatshet Gogawale, Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, five MLAs, seven special invitees, and seven senior government officials. It is mandated to submit a detailed report within one month, outlining time-bound reforms for rural road development.
“The objective is to provide good and accessible rural infrastructure to improve the lives of farmers and the agricultural sector,” said Bawankule. The committee’s primary tasks include reviewing the Matoshri Pandhan Road Scheme, studying successful rural road initiatives in Nagpur, Amravati and Latur, and evaluating the implementation of recommendations made by the Commissioner of Land Records. It will also assess the need for a separate budget head for farm road projects and explore funding mechanisms under existing schemes.
Furthermore, the panel aims to propose measures to strengthen all farm and village roads within five years and recommend the most suitable department for implementation. The committee has the authority to invite retired officers and subject matter experts to ensure a comprehensive approach.
Given the growing mechanisation of agriculture, the development of robust farm roads is seen as vital for effective sowing, harvesting, and market transport. This initiative is expected to significantly improve rural connectivity, enhance efficiency, and uplift farmer livelihoods.
Source: The Indian Express
