Li Jun, Party chief of Xiuyun village in the Baiyi township of Cangxi county in Southwest China's Sichuan province, attended the 12th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing from Nov 4 to 8.

As a deputy to the top legislative body, Li actively contributed his insights and suggestions on the draft amendment to the Law on Deputies to the National People's Congress and to the Local People's Congresses at Various Levels.

"I have been closely following the amendment," he said. Known for his willingness to speak out and his commitment to tangible actions, Li is highly regarded by his colleagues and villagers alike.

"As an NPC deputy, it is my duty to voice the concerns of grassroots people and address pressing societal issues," he emphasized.

Over the years, he has submitted over 70 motions and suggestions on topics of public concern, notably focusing on regulating online live streaming and online tipping, which have drawn significant public attention.

Li's journey as a public servant began 16 years ago when he returned to Xiuyun village from the provincial capital Chengdu. At 23 years old, he decided to dedicate his life to the revitalization of his hometown, and has since played a leading role in the village's transformation from extreme poverty to a provincial-level rural vitalization demonstration village.

Thanks to Li's unremitting efforts, Xiuyun village has embraced sustainable development practices and established eco-friendly brands centered on chicken, duck and pig farming.

Through innovative initiatives like creating the "village-city pairing up" model, inviting young people to return home and start businesses and promoting online platforms for farmers, he has successfully turned the village into a renowned brand of premium agricultural products such as organic kiwi, crisp peach and orange.

Li also spearheaded the establishment of processing plants for agricultural and construction materials, as well as a liquor company producing a series of locally branded baijiu.

"Our collective economy must go beyond traditional agriculture and primary agricultural products to achieve greater added value," he said.

By fostering a culture of community engagement through monthly voluntary labor days, a sense of pride and unity among villagers was strengthened, leading to a more vibrant and prosperous community.

Li said that the rural vitalization ultimately relies on everyone's participation and  collective effort.

Li Jun, Party chief of Xiuyun village in the Baiyi township of Cangxi county in Southwest China's Sichuan province and a deputy to the National People's Congress (NPC), attends the 12th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th NPC in Beijing in November. [Photo provided to npc.gov.cn]

Reflecting on Xiuyun's transformation, he finds immense fulfillment in witnessing the village's growth and prosperity.

"Each generation has its own youth, and each generation has its own mission. I will continue to work hard, forge ahead and contribute to the comprehensive vitalization of the countryside," he said.

Shu Ying contributed to this story.