Jharkhand News : The Jharkhand government has approved a major initiative for the protection and beautification of graveyards across the state. Under the leadership of Minority Welfare Minister Hafizul Hasan, the state has sanctioned fencing and beautification work for 634 graveyards in 22 districts, with a total outlay of nearly ₹146 crore.
According to official details, Sahebganj has received the highest allocation. In this district, 126 graveyards will be developed at a cost of ₹31.04 crore. Khunti ranks second, with approval for 82 graveyards costing ₹18.99 crore.
Instructions Issued to District Administrations
The Minority Welfare Department’s Joint Secretary, Javed Anwar Idrisi, has issued letters to the Deputy Commissioners of all concerned districts, outlining the implementation process. The letter states that administrative approval will be granted after technical clearance, and officials must ensure there is no duplication of schemes.
Before starting the work, PD ITDA or the District Welfare Officer will verify all land-related aspects. Copies of approval orders will also be shared with the department.
District-wise Approved Graveyards and Budget (₹ in crore)
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Sahebganj – 126 graveyards | 31.04
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Khunti – 82 graveyards | 18.99
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Palamu – 76 graveyards | 18.44
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Hazaribagh – 50 graveyards | 11.77
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Ranchi – 48 graveyards | 10.36
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Godda – 45 graveyards | 10.86
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Deoghar – 39 graveyards | 7.89
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Latehar – 26 graveyards | 6.21
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Bokaro – 20 graveyards | 4.84
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Dumka – 18 graveyards | 3.67
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Pakur – 14 graveyards | 3.07
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West Singhbhum – 12 graveyards | 2.95
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Giridih – 12 graveyards | 2.41
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Dhanbad – 10 graveyards | 2.52
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Chatra – 8 graveyards | 1.97
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Gumla – 8 graveyards | 1.39
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Ramgarh – 7 graveyards | 1.51
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Garhwa – 6 graveyards | 1.38
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Koderma – 5 graveyards | 1.92
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Lohardaga – 1 graveyard | 1.87
Objective of the Scheme
The Graveyard Fencing and Beautification Scheme, implemented under the Minority Welfare Department, aims to safeguard graveyards from encroachment and provide basic infrastructure such as boundary walls, access paths, and seating arrangements.
The government has clarified that it will no longer directly acquire private (raiyati) land for graveyards. Instead, landowners must donate the land through a formal deed, after which fencing and beautification work will be carried out.
Officials believe this initiative will significantly improve the condition of graveyards across Jharkhand while ensuring their long-term protection and proper management.
