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MENDHAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of key development schemes undertaken by Rural Development department (RDD) for the fiscal year 2025–26, with a particular focus on Balakot and Mankote blocks.
The meeting was attended by the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Shakeel A Malik; Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACP), Block Development Officers (BDOs) of the respective blocks and other senior officers of the department. During the review, the Minister underscored the critical role of RDD in catalysing rural transformation, emphasizing that all development efforts must be aligned with the needs and aspirations of local communities.
He reiterated the government’s commitment of timely implementation of schemes, in a transparent and people-centric manner, with enhanced convergence among departments and active community participation at every stage.
While taking stock of the Annual Action Plan, the Minister pointed out the need to bridge the gap between physical achievements and financial expenditure under major funding components including the Area Development Plan (APDP), PRI Grants, CD Panchayat funds, Tribal Sub-Plan, District Capex and the Vibrant Village Programme.
He directed officials to identify implementation challenges, remove bottlenecks and adopt a proactive approach to ensure that all ongoing works are completed within stipulated timelines. Reviewing the progress under flagship schemes like PMAY (G) and MGNREGA, the Minister instructed Block Development Officers to take ownership of projects and expedite the execution of works in accordance with approved block-wise plans.
He laid strong emphasis on the timely disbursement of wages under MGNREGA and called for an increase in the number of workdays generated to enhance livelihood opportunities for the rural population. He also urged officials to resolve delays in wage payments and clear all pending arrears within a fixed time frame.
With regard to PMAY-G (Awas-Plus), Rana directed officers to closely monitor the progress of house completions and evaluate new sanctions. He stressed that special attention must be given to the rehabilitation of disaster-affected families and issued instructions to expedite damage assessment surveys and submit detailed proposals for assistance at the earliest.
Highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in public service delivery, Rana called for the regular conduct of social audits and strict adherence to quality standards in all development works. He asserted that transparency forms the foundation of an accountable governance system and must be upheld without compromise.
The Minister also reviewed the progress under Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) and assessed block-wise achievements across various components like Individual Household Latrines (IHHL), Community Sanitary Complexes, Solid Waste Management units, compost pits and waste management sheds. He reiterated that the core objective of SBM-G is to establish an effective system for waste collection, segregation and scientific disposal and urged officials to intensify their efforts to achieve this goal.
During the meeting, the Minister also stressed the significance of convergence between the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) and MGNREGA to promote sustainable watershed development. He encouraged the promotion of innovative livelihood models and called for greater support to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to strengthen rural livelihoods and economic empowerment.
Taking a comprehensive review of the ongoing construction of Panchayat Ghars in Balakote and Mankote blocks, the Minister examined the block-wise progress and urged all executing agencies and stakeholders to work in close coordination to overcome on-ground challenges. He also directed them to resolve any pending land issues without delay to ensure the timely completion of all sanctioned Panchayat Ghars. Rana reaffirmed Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to inclusive rural development, assuring that every possible measure will be taken to deliver impactful outcomes that reflect the aspirations of the people.
