The Jharkhand government has given its go-ahead to three-tier panchayat polls following a cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister Hemant Soren on Thursday evening with state cabinet coordination secretary Vandana Dadel saying that the state election commission would announce the dates which had also been finalised.

“At Thursday's meeting, the cabinet formally approved panchayat polls but we can’t announce the dates as it is the mandate of the election commission,” she told the media.

A total of 35 proposals were taken up at the meeting.

In another significant move, the state government approved the new Jharkhand State Solar Policy-2022 which will be in force for next five years. As pert this new policy, she added, the state has set a target of producing 4,000 mega watt solar power in thenext five year by installing generation capacities.

“This apart, a host of provisions for incentives and subsidies to promote solar energy is in place. For example, those willing to set up solar parks or facilities will get land free of cost and 100 per cent exemption on stamp duty. For individuals earning up to Rs 3 lakh, 60 per cent subsidy will be given for solar rooftop set-ups up 3 kilo watt power,” she said.

The state cabinet also amended the power subsidy scheme under which those consuming up to 400 units per month will not be eligible for power subsidy. “By this, state expects to save Rs 210 crore annually,” she said.

The cabinet also approved a proposal to give the benefit of the Sixth Pay Commission to college and university teachers. It also gave its nod for funds to the tune of Rs 70 crore for upgrading 84 model schools and setting up of information, communication and technology (ICT) labs with smart classes.

Another Rs 78.08 crore was sanctioned for installation of 5,310 CCTV cameras across 334 police stations across the state. CCTVs at police stations are mandated under an order of the Supreme Court to ensure procedural transparency at thanas.

The state cabinet also approved the education department’s proposal to introduce computer studies in middle schools under Gyanodaya Yojana for which it sanctioned Rs 58.16 crore.