The newly formed Cabinet in New Delhi, led by Chief Minister Atishi, who took office on Saturday, faces an extensive agenda of pending projects and initiatives to launch ahead of the Assembly elections scheduled for early next year. Atishi must act swiftly to rejuvenate the city government’s operations, which have lagged due to her predecessor Arvind Kejriwal’s five-month judicial custody related to the excise policy case.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has struggled with essential services and infrastructure issues, including roads, water supply, and healthcare, attributed to a reported fund crunch. Atishi’s immediate focus will be on accelerating progress on flagship projects, including the “Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana,” which aims to provide eligible women in Delhi with an honorarium of Rs 1,000.
Her initial responsibilities will involve allocating ministerial portfolios, holding the National Capital Civil Services Authority meeting for Group-A postings, and resuming the doorstep delivery of services scheme. Additionally, she will prioritize the approval of the Delhi EV Policy 2.0 and the Solar Policy.
Establishing a constructive relationship with Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena is expected to be one of her significant challenges, as his approvals are essential for various governance and development projects. Atishi’s leadership will be crucial for advancing welfare schemes and infrastructure initiatives, such as mohalla clinics, new hospitals, schools, and flyovers.
Upon her appointment, Atishi highlighted her commitment to safeguarding the interests of Delhi residents against perceived attempts by the Bharatiya Janata Party to disrupt AAP’s initiatives, including free electricity, water, and healthcare.
(With PTI inputs)