Motherland Scheme: Sons fail to keep their fathers and grandfathers' names alive in UP villages:The Motherland Scheme is not gaining the expected momentum in Gorakhpur.

News Topical, Digital Desk : The government's ambitious "Matrubhoomi" (motherland) scheme isn't gaining the desired momentum in Gorakhpur district. Launched with the aim of connecting migrant workers with the development of their villages, the scheme's benefits remain limited. Despite nearly five years having passed, only four or five gram panchayats in the district have seen small-scale development work, raising questions about the scheme's effectiveness.

Under the scheme, 60 percent of the development costs are borne by the beneficiary or organization, and 40 percent by the state government. Permission has been granted for the construction of numerous infrastructure facilities, including community buildings, libraries, drinking water systems, pond beautification, playgrounds, health centers, roads, solar lights, CCTV, open gyms, bus stands, and Anganwadi centers. Despite this, most migrants are showing no interest.

Experts believe that the new generation's weakening emotional connection to their villages and ancestral heritage is a major reason for this. Those who have settled in larger cities or abroad for employment or business purposes are not as actively involved in contributing financially to the village's development, even though this segment is considered economically capable.

On the other hand, a lack of publicity has also emerged as a major factor hindering the effective implementation of the scheme. Adequate information has not reached the rural level, nor has a robust and systematic platform been developed for migrants to easily connect with.

It has been arranged at the government level that if any person or organization wants to carry out development work in the Gram Panchayat area, then it can cooperate in the works permitted under Section 15 of the Panchayat Raj Act.

There is also a provision for contributors to display the names of their parents, grandparents, siblings, etc. on the plaque, giving them social recognition. Furthermore, private investment is also expected to improve the quality of work, technical support, and monitoring.

Despite this, the panchayats are not achieving the desired results. Experts say that if the scheme is to gain momentum, an emotional appeal to migrants, strengthening of digital platforms, and a comprehensive public awareness campaign will be necessary. Only then will this scheme be able to play a meaningful role in the overall development of villages.