Retired Banker Suresh Sharma Pledges Rs. 20 Lakh for Development, Sparks Push for Unopposed Panchayat in Tikker Kalan in Mandi.
Shimla:
In a rare and striking political development, Suresh Sharma, a candidate for the post of Panchayat Pradhan in the newly formed Tikker Kalan Panchayat under Balh assembly constituency of Mandi district, has announced a personal financial commitment of Rs. 20 lakh for the village’s overall development. The declaration has generated widespread discussion across social and political circles, with many locals now advocating for an unopposed panchayat formation.
Sharma, a retired bank manager who is also associated with journalism, stated that he would initially contribute Rs. 10 lakh from his own resources toward development works. Additionally, he pledged not to draw his monthly honorarium as Pradhan. Instead, he plans to add an equivalent amount from his own funds, ensuring that at least Rs. 15,000 per month is directed toward Panchayat development. This would amount to nearly Rs. 2 lakh annually and an additional Rs. 10 lakh over a five-year term.
The announcement has found strong backing from local community groups. Representatives from Mahila Mandals and Yuvak Mandals, including Meenu, Geeta Devi, and Yash Pal (Yashu), expressed their collective resolve to make Tikker Kalan an unopposed Panchayat. Their aim is to secure government incentive funds and channel them entirely into development projects.
Local intellectuals and senior residents—including Ghanshyam Sharma, Uttam Chand, Jagdish Chand, and others—have also endorsed the idea of unanimous elections. They emphasized that such unity would not only bring recognition to the Panchayat at the state level but also unlock the Rs. 25 lakh incentive granted by the government to unopposed Panchayats.
In another significant move, Sharma addressed the long-pending issue of a Panchayat building. He announced that if suitable government land is not available, he would donate a portion of his private roadside land for the construction of a Panchayat Ghar, as per government norms. This, he said, would ensure smooth functioning of administrative work for the new Panchayat.
Known for his social standing and financial stability, Sharma said his decision to contest elections stems from a desire to give back to society after fulfilling personal and family responsibilities. “I have spent my life earning for my family. Now, I want to contribute meaningfully to my community,” he remarked.
Residents believe that Sharma’s experience, credibility, and clear development agenda make him a strong candidate for unanimous selection. If consensus is achieved, Tikker Kalan Panchayat could emerge as a model of grassroots unity and accelerated rural development in Himachal Pradesh.
