The Rajasthan Cabinet has approved legislative amendments removing restrictions that previously barred individuals with more than two children from contesting panchayat and municipal elections. The decision comes ahead of upcoming local body polls and reflects changing demographic trends in the state.
Two-Child Norm No Longer Relevant, Says Government
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel stated that the original restriction was introduced when population control was a major policy priority. However, the fertility rate in Rajasthan has declined significantly—from 3.6 in 1991–94 to around 2 today—reducing the relevance of the rule.
The Cabinet approved:
-
Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2026
-
Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill, 2026
These amendments modify provisions under the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act, 1994 and the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009, effectively allowing candidates with more than two children to participate in local elections.
Deputy Chief Minister Premchand Bairwa and Industries and Commerce Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore also attended the briefing following the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
Strengthening Economic Crime Prevention
The Cabinet approved the creation of a Revenue Intelligence and Economic Offences Directorate, replacing the existing State Revenue Intelligence Directorate. The new body aims to enhance action against:
-
Real estate and financial fraud
-
Bank and insurance-related crimes
-
Share market and NBFC irregularities
-
Multi-level marketing scams
-
Forged employment and admission documents
-
Illegal land encroachments and shell company operations
Authorities expect the new directorate to improve financial discipline and crime prevention in Rajasthan’s economic sector.
Industrial Development and Employment Initiatives
The Cabinet also approved the Rajasthan Industrial Park Promotion Policy, 2026, designed to boost industrial growth and employment through the development of private industrial parks. This initiative aims to attract investment and strengthen economic opportunities across the state.
Additionally, a revised financial model for the Rajasthan Mandapam and Global Capability Centre project in Jaipur was cleared, along with the draft of the Rajasthan Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy University, Ajmer Bill, 2026 to promote traditional healthcare education.
Inclusive Governance and Legal Reforms
The government further approved removing the word “leprosy” from disqualifying disease provisions under the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009. This amendment seeks to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for individuals affected by leprosy to contest municipal elections.
Focus on Development and Democratic Participation
The Cabinet’s decisions reflect a broader commitment to inclusive governance, economic growth, and electoral reforms. By removing outdated restrictions and strengthening institutional frameworks, Rajasthan aims to enhance democratic participation and sustainable development.
