Bateshwar Fair to Be Organised on the Lines of Taj Mahotsav; Special Focus on Sports, Roads, Sanitation and Smart Villages
Agra. The Agra Zila Panchayat on Monday unanimously passed an estimated ₹59 crore budget for the financial year 2026–27 during a board meeting held at the Zila Panchayat office. The meeting was chaired by Zila Panchayat Chairperson Dr Manju Bhadauria and attended by Chief Development Officer Pratibha Singh, Additional Chief Officer Umesh Chandra, along with Zila Panchayat members.
After the budget approval, Dr Manju Bhadauria said the budget has been prepared in accordance with the spirit of Antyodaya, keeping in mind the holistic development of villages, farmers, the poor, women and youth. She stated, “‘Developed Villages–Developed Nation’ is our core mantra, and this budget will provide a new direction and momentum to rural development.”
Special Emphasis on Sports and Youth
To promote sports among rural youth, ₹3 crore has been allocated for the construction of mini stadiums, while ₹4 crore has been earmarked for the development of children’s parks at the gram panchayat level. Additionally, ₹1.5 crore has been approved for the construction of a rest house on vacant Zila Panchayat land.
Focus on Sanitation and Water Conservation
Strengthening sanitation and basic infrastructure remains a priority, with ₹7 crore allocated for the construction of public toilets and drains. Considering the declining groundwater levels, ₹4 crore has been approved for the construction of new water bodies, deepening and beautification of existing ponds.
Roads and Rural Connectivity
To improve rural connectivity, ₹8 crore has been allocated for new road construction, resurfacing and repair works, while ₹14 crore has been approved for RCC roads, kharanja and interlocking works.
Smart Villages and Tourism Promotion
Under the Smart Village Scheme, ₹7.5 crore has been sanctioned to develop one Smart Village in each block. To promote cultural heritage and tourism, it was decided to organise the Bateshwar Fair on the lines of the Taj Mahotsav, with the necessary budget provisions made.
Other Key Allocations
₹1.5 crore for construction of shops on vacant land to enhance Zila Panchayat revenue
₹1 crore for the development of Ramayan Vatika and Nandan playground
₹30 lakh for sports equipment and organising competitions
₹20 lakh for advertisement expenses
₹20 lakh for disaster relief and contingency expenses
₹10 lakh for plantation drives and tree guards
₹6 crore for salaries, allowances and pensions of employees
Resolution on Rural Development Reform
The house also unanimously passed a resolution supporting the implementation of the VVG Ram Ji Act in place of MGNREGA, aiming to make rural development initiatives more transparent and effective.
