Inaugurating the two days training programme of mayors and deputy mayors of Municipal Corporations, presidents and vice presidents of Urban Local bodies of the state at HIPA he said. “There is a need for imparting skills and enhancing knowledge of these members to enable them to discharge their duties and responsibilities leading to the effective functioning of ULBs", he added.
He said BJP government in the past made provision of 50 percent reservation for women in ULBs. “Today, more than 50 percent women representatives are elected in ULBs. This is a sign of change and we have to convert it into an opportunity to ensure the good governance,” he added.
He said ULB representatives should avoid any confrontation amongst elected representatives of ULBs and local officials by better coordination. They should gain knowledge of government projects, schemes, rules,” he added.
Bhardwaj said the Union Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has rolled out so many schemes to transform the urban life. “Homes for homeless, jobs for jobless, round the clock water supply, sanitation, better health infrastructure in the urban areas are amongst priorities,” he said.
He said the state has fared well and figured in top five states in Swachh Sarvekshan (Cleanliness survey). “We must improve the situation by innovation,” he said.
He said the NITI Aayog has for rolled out the SDG index for urban India for the first time and Shimla city has topped the tally.
The training programme has been designed by the urban development department. Director urban development Manmohan Sharma, other officials remained present on the occasion.
