₹21,000 Incentive for Hosting Simple, Alcohol-Free Weddings in Punjab Village

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): The gram panchayat of Ballo village in Punjab's Bathinda district has announced a cash reward of ₹21,000 for families that refrain from serving alcohol and playing DJ music at wedding ceremonies.  

Sarpanch Amarjit Kaur stated on Tuesday that the initiative aims to discourage wasteful spending on weddings and address issues of liquor abuse. "It is common to see quarrels breaking out at events where alcohol is served and loud DJ music not only disturbs others but also hampers students' studies," she explained.  

The panchayat passed a resolution under which families adhering to these guidelines at wedding functions will receive the cash incentive. Ballo village with a population of around 5,000, hopes to set an example for others.  

Additionally, the sarpanch has urged the government to construct a stadium in the village to promote sports among the youth. "A stadium will enable the organization of various sports activities," Kaur said.  

The panchayat is also planning to set up a biogas plant and has proposed distributing free seeds to farmers who choose organic farming furthering its focus on sustainable development.