Priyanka Gandhi reviews development schemes in Malappuram, calls for better tribal outreach
The review covered various Central government schemes, stressing improved communication and needs-based support for tribal residents.
The review covered various Central government schemes, stressing improved communication and needs-based support for tribal residents.
The review covered various Central government schemes, stressing improved communication and needs-based support for tribal residents.
Malappuram: Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) projects and Central government schemes at the Malappuram Collectorate conference hall. The session reviewed progress under the MPLADS, National Health Mission (NHM), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS).
Officials reported that of the 53 development projects approved during Rahul Gandhi’s tenure as MP for the constituency’s three Assembly segments in Malappuram district, 45 have been completed and eight remain in progress. Of the 27 projects recommended since Priyanka Gandhi assumed office, seven are underway, while others are nearing completion. The construction of a new platform at Tuvvur railway station is scheduled for completion by 31 December 2025. Priyanka urged authorities to expedite estimates and work on pending schemes.
Health sector initiatives under the NHM were reviewed. The MP said requests for a blood transport van for Nilambur Blood Bank, a vaccine transport vehicle for tribal areas in Wayanad, and a four-wheel-drive jeep for the tribal mobile medical unit at Nilambur District Hospital would be considered.
Under PMGSY, 17 road projects covering 78.08 km have been sanctioned in the constituency. Nine schemes (38.88 km) are complete, six are nearing completion, and the Muppini Bridge between Edakkara and Moothaadam is among them. Another 55 road development proposals recommended by the MP await state-level approval.
The meeting was chaired by District Collector VR Vinod and attended by MLAs Aryadan Shoukath, AP Anilkumar and PK Basheer, District Panchayat President M K Rafeekha, Vice President Ismail Moothaadam, ADM NM Meharali, District Planning Officer AD Joseph and officials from various departments.
Priyanka Gandhi stressed the need to improve communication with tribal communities in Nilambur, including the Cholanaikkans. She said aid like food and housing is often provided without assessing actual needs and urged that support be based on proper consultations. She also called for regular interactions with tribal residents and speedy implementation of the Forest Rights Act to secure land rights, adding the issue would be reviewed further.