In the heart of Gujarat's Sabarkantha district lies Punsari, a village that has redefined rural development and emerged as an "Adarsh Gram" (Model Village). With a population of around 6,000, Punsari boasts amenities that can rival those of any metropolitan city in India, setting a benchmark for village development across the nation.
Unlike many Indian villages struggling with basic facilities, Punsari is an example of what planned development can achieve. Every household in the village has access to toilets, promoting sanitation and hygiene. The village also has two primary schools, a primary health centre, well-maintained street lights, and a proper drainage system.
The entire village is Wi-Fi enabled, ensuring seamless internet connectivity for all residents. CCTV cameras are strategically placed throughout the village, enhancing security and monitoring public spaces. A unique public address system with approximately 140 loudspeakers covers the entire village, allowing authorities to communicate effectively with the population.
Education and Employment Opportunities
Education is a major focus in Punsari. The village has recorded zero school dropouts, and the schools are Wi-Fi enabled, offering computer lessons to students. Live CCTV footage of classrooms is monitored to ensure quality education. The midday meal scheme ensures that children receive nutritious meals daily.
Employment opportunities in the village have also improved, reducing migration to cities. Some families who had moved to urban areas have returned to Punsari due to its improved living conditions. A former Mumbai-based taxi driver, Naveen, shared how his family returned to Punsari after hearing about its development, seeking a better quality of life away from big city struggles.
Ideal Village of India
The success of Punsari has attracted national attention, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi sending officials to study its development model. The insights gained from Punsari’s transformation are being used to develop a nationwide scheme for creating model villages across India.
Another standout feature is its commitment to cleanliness. The roads are spotless and litter-free, setting an example for other villages and even urban areas. The village’s infrastructure also includes speakers at every corner for public announcements, ensuring that important information reaches every resident in real time.
. As more villages look to replicate Punsari’s success, the dream of a digitally connected, well-developed rural India seems closer than ever.