Javid Dar reaffirms commitment to rural empowerment, calls for efficient governance

• Stresses on participation of legislators for effective rural planning

SRINAGAR: Minister of Rural Development Department (RDD) & Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar, today reaffirmed the government's commitment to rural empowerment, stating that ensuring eligible individuals benefit from RDD schemes without obstacles is a government obligation.

During a review meeting chaired at Civil Secretariat here, Javid Dar emphasized the need for prompt and transparent implementation of rural development initiatives. He instructed officials to accelerate ongoing projects while maintaining quality standards, noting that efficient grassroots governance is essential for community welfare.

Minister directed Assistant Commissioners Development (ACDs) and Assistant Commissioners Panchayats (ACPs) to collaborate closely with legislators on works and financial planning matters. "We must support and work alongside legislators to ensure cooperation at the grassroots level," Dar said, stressing the importance of taking elected representatives into confidence during project planning and execution.

The Minister evaluated progress on key programs, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin. Discussions also covered the construction and enhancement of Panchayat Ghars for 2023-2025 and the co-location of Common Service Centers (CSC), UT capex budget.

The Minister was informed that under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G), a record 1,12,000 houses were completed in FY 2024-25, the highest ever in J&K. Additionally, 5 Marlas of land were provided to 498 landless beneficiaries. Under MGNREGA, 407.04 lakh person-days were generated, and 1.84 lakh works completed, marking record achievements in employment and rural infrastructure.

Through the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), 42,146 Lakhpati Didis were formed, and over 6,000 rural SHG women received skill training. Under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), 330 Panchayat Ghars have been completed, with 272 more allotted for FY 2024-25. Under Swachh Bharat Mission - Gramin (SBM-G), 43,280 Individual Household Latrines (IHHL) were constructed, surpassing the target of 36,000 by 120%.

Javed Dar directed officers to ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive timely assistance under PMAY-G, which aims to provide affordable housing in rural areas. Additionally, he highlighted the need for well-equipped Panchayat Ghars to strengthen grassroots governance and public service delivery.

The Minister called for regular field visits and community engagement, encouraging officials to hold public "darbars" for grievance redressal. "We must focus on our strengths, work for the welfare of the people, and maintain a transparent and accountable system," he emphasized.

Javid Dar also praised RDD efforts in clearing irrigation channels (Khuls) in the Chenab and Pir Panjal regions and other parts of Kashmir valley. He urged officials to rejuvenate natural water sources and develop them into potential Amrit Sarovars to enhance rural water availability.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, highlighted the need for unity among government officials and elected representatives, noting that rural development must focus on awareness and highlighting government achievements in India's largely rural-centric democracy.

Nasir Aslam acknowledged challenges faced by women's self-help groups under the "Lakhpati Didi" initiative, particularly high-interest rates on loans. He proposed connecting these groups with corporate banks to reduce interest rates and increase financial stability, enabling women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

Secretary, RDD, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, briefed the Minister on the status of ongoing initiatives and schemes aimed at rural development and improving rural life in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Director RDD Kashmir Shabir Hussain Bhat, Joint Director of Planning at Directorate of Rural Development Kashmir, all Assistant Commissioners Development (ACD) and Assistant Commissioners Panchayats(ACPs) from Kashmir Division.