### No Decision on New Districts in Rajasthan Cabinet Meeting By Gopendra Nath Bhatt
Ahead of the Rising Rajasthan Investment Global Summit 2024 and following the conclusion of by-elections and the Model Code of Conduct, the Rajasthan Cabinet convened a marathon meeting under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. While several key decisions were made during the session, no resolution was reached regarding the creation of new districts.
The meeting approved a new proposal for the Anti-Conversion Law and various other significant policies. However, no conclusion was drawn on the recommendations of the Cabinet Sub-Committee and Dr. Lalit K. Panwar Committee concerning the reorganization of districts after the Gehlot government increased the number from 33 to 50. Speculation about restructuring smaller districts and creating new ones remains unresolved. Observers suggest that the sensitive matter will likely be addressed only after the Rising Rajasthan event, as the government intends to avoid hasty decisions with long-term political and administrative implications.
Key Decisions Taken During the Meeting
The Cabinet approved nine new policies aimed at accelerating industrial and economic development. Significant decisions include:
Formation of the 7th State Finance Commission
Proposals to establish Development Authorities in Bikaner and Bharatpur were approved, with ordinances to be introduced in the Assembly.
The Bikaner Development Authority will incorporate 185 surrounding villages, while the Bharatpur Authority will include 209 villages.
Policy Revisions and Approvals
Amendments to the Rajasthan Civil Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2017, in line with the Khemraj Committee's recommendations.
Introduction of the Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill 2024 to tackle forced religious conversions, with provisions for up to 10 years of imprisonment.
Tourism Policies
Approval of the Rajasthan Tourism Unit Policy 2024, featuring incentives for eco-tourism, heritage restaurants, film cities, motels, and tourism startups.
Projects requiring a minimum investment of ₹100 crore will be allotted government land at concessional rates.
The policy includes exemptions on stamp duty, conversion charges, and development fees under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme 2024 (RIPS).
Export Promotion and MSME Development
Approval of the Rajasthan MSME Policy 2024 to enhance global competitiveness.
A target to increase state exports by ₹1.5 lakh crore within five years was set.
Energy and Mining Policies
Approval of the Rajasthan Integrated Clean Energy Policy 2024 to boost solar and wind energy production, aiming for a capacity of 125 GW.
The Rajasthan M-Sand Policy 2024 was introduced to provide cheaper alternatives to river sand.
Employment and Infrastructure
The Cabinet announced amendments to the Rajasthan Contractual Appointment to Civil Posts Rules, 2022, providing annual pay increments similar to state employees. Further, the NTT teacher cadre has been incorporated under the Rajasthan Education Service Rules, 2021.
Additionally, amendments to land conversion rules and the establishment of a 50-50 joint venture with the central government for metro rail projects were approved. This venture will oversee the construction, operation, and maintenance of ongoing and future metro rail projects in the state.
Conclusion
The Bhajan Lal Sharma Cabinet has laid a robust foundation for Rajasthan's growth with these decisions. The initiatives, especially in tourism, energy, and industrial development, are expected to be transformative ahead of the Rising Rajasthan Investment Global Summit 2024.
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