Sri Vijaya Puram: Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, along with Lt. Governor D.K. Joshi, conducted a review of urban development schemes in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands at Raj Niwas, Sri Vijaya Puram. This marked the Minister’s inaugural visit to the islands, where he praised ongoing projects under national initiatives, including AMRUT, the Smart Cities Mission, and Swachh Bharat Mission, noting their impact on improving the ease of living for citizens.
The review began with an update from the Chief Secretary, who detailed that the Union Territory is actively implementing seven schemes under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Manohar Lal commended the island’s progress, particularly encouraging further improvement in Swachhata rankings in the coming years. He also called for enhanced efforts in the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), as well as a continued focus on sanitation and cleanliness initiatives. The administration reported that the PM SVANidhi scheme has already met its target in the region.
During the meeting, the Union Minister emphasized the importance of tackling legacy waste and meeting Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) identified under the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. The administration responded, highlighting their achievements in the remediation of legacy waste and affirming ongoing efforts to improve waste management further.
In addition to reviewing progress, Manohar Lal encouraged the administration to explore new ways to expand urban areas by notifying additional Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and identifying innovative strategies to boost tourism, services, and education to attract more residents and visitors to the islands.
This review underscored the commitment of the Ministry and the A&N administration to advancing urban development and ensuring sustainable growth in the islands, enhancing both resident and visitor experiences.