RAJOURI: Block Khawas-the sole Aspirational Block of Rajouri district has achieved a significant milestone by securing the 5th rank among the country’s 500 blocks under the Aspirational Block Programme (ABP). Block Khawas was identified as an Aspirational Block on January 7, 2023, at the 2nd National Conference of Chief Secretaries, with the objective to enhance governance and improve the quality of life for citizens in underdeveloped and challenging regions of the country. The programme focuses on converging existing schemes, defining measurable outcomes, and ensuring continuous monitoring to drive progress.
To achieve saturation of key developmental indicators, the district administration launched a comprehensive initiative titled "Sampooranata Abhiyan" from July to September 2024. Under this initiative, six critical indicators were targeted for saturation including three from the Health Department, one each from ICDS, Agriculture and Social Welfare Departments. District Development Commissioner Abhishek Sharma, in the capacity of nodal officer, through constant monitoring and regular reviews of stakeholder departments and field-level functionaries, secured 100% saturation in five out of the six indicators. The remaining indicator is pending due to a nationwide technical glitch.
The progress of Block Khawas has been remarkable, with a dramatic improvement in its ranking over the quarters: First Quarter: Ranked 405, Second Quarter: Ranked 453 and Third Quarter: Ranked 5. The extraordinary leap underscores the commitment and hard work of all stakeholders involved in the Aspirational Block Programme in Rajouri district.
Speaking on the achievement, District Development Commissioner Abhishek Sharma, lauded the efforts of the administration and grassroots-level workers. “This milestone reflects our collective commitment to ensuring holistic development in the most challenging regions. The significant improvement in Block Khawas’ ranking is a testament to the dedication and synergy of all departments and field teams,” he stated. The district administration remains steadfast in its efforts to address the challenges of Block Khawas and will continue striving for excellence in governance and service delivery under the Aspirational Block Programme.
