Jhunjhunu: Chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma Sunday said industrialists from Shekhawati who have built businesses outside the region would be invited for a special gathering on Dec 8, ahead of Pravasi Diwas on Dec 10.Addressing ‘karyakarta samvad’ (dialogue with workers) programmes during his visit to Khatu Shyam Ji in Sikar and Salasar in Churu districts, Sharma appealed to local industrialists settled outside to join the ‘Karmabhoomi se Matribhoomi Abhiyaan’, a diaspora investment initiative of the state govt.He also called on BJP workers to unite and ensure the party’s victory in the ongoing panchayat elections.After listening to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat radio programme at Khatu Shyamji, Sharma called for farming and small industries to be promoted through a ‘local for vocal’ model.Rajasthan grows isabgol, ajwain, fenugreek, pulses, groundnut, cumin, dates and pomegranate in abundance, he said, pointing to the need for processing units for these crops to boost local employment and encourage higher production.Referring to Shekhawati’s semi-arid conditions, Sharma said Yamuna water-sharing agreement between Rajasthan and Haryana was made with this region in mind. He added that, as a result, Shekhawati would face no shortage of water in the coming months.The CM said four major greenfield expressways passing through the region would serve not only to improve connectivity but also to unlock Shekhawati’s vast economic potential. To that end, he said his govt would also undertake the conservation of 662 havelis in the region.“The youth of Shekhawati are talented. Whenever any recruitment is announced, sons and daughters from this region are selected in the highest numbers,” Sharma added.
