BUDGAM: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) & Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today conducted an extensive tour of Budgam district to review the physical and financial progress of various ongoing developmental works being executed under different rural development schemes. During the tour, the Secretary visited several key project sites in Budgam and Khansahib blocks, emphasizing the importance of timely completion, quality execution and optimum utilization of public funds.

The tour commenced with a visit to the Regional Extension Training Centre (RETC), Budgam, where Aijaz Asad held an interaction with all the Block Development Officers (BDOs) of Budgam and Khansahib blocks. The Secretary stressed upon the officers to ensure early completion of developmental works while adhering to the set timelines and scheme guidelines.

Subsequently, the Secretary inspected the under construction District Development Council (DDC) Building located near the Office of the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Budgam. The project has an estimated cost of ₹253.29 lakh, against which an expenditure of ₹94.95 lakh has been incurred, so far. The Secretary reviewed the pace of execution and directed the executing agency to expedite the remaining works without compromising on quality.

The tour then proceeded to Panchayat Halqa Shoolipora in Block Budgam, where the Secretary inspected construction of a concrete protection wall at Aastan Syed Musa Deewan, being executed under CD & Panchayat schemes. The project has an estimated cost of ₹131.93 lakh. Against this, releases amounting ₹112.14 lakh have been made, with a current expenditure of ₹35.89 lakh. The Secretary instructed the concerned officers to ensure proper supervision and timely completion of the work.

In Block Khansahib, Aijaz Asad reviewed the progress on a playfield at Panchayat Halqa Shinipora, being developed under MGNREGA, with an allotted cost of ₹10.00 lakh. The Secretary underscored the significance of creating durable community assets that promote youth engagement and sports activities in rural areas.

Later, the Secretary visited the under-construction Panchayat Ghar at Reyar Beerwa, Block Khansahib, being executed under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA). The project has an Administrative Approval (AA) cost of ₹35.00 lakh and an allotted cost of ₹25.00 lakh, against which both release and expenditure stand at ₹15.38 lakh. The Secretary directed the officials to accelerate the pace of work so that the facility is made functional at the earliest.

While interacting with the field functionaries, Aijaz Asad reiterated that regular monitoring, field inspections and outcome-oriented implementation are key to achieving the objectives of rural development schemes. He emphasized that all projects must be completed within the stipulated timelines to ensure maximum benefit to the rural populace.

The Secretary was accompanied by the Joint Director, Rural Development Department, Kashmir; Chief Planning Officer, Budgam; Assistant Commissioner Development, Budgam; Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Khansahib; Executive Engineer, RDD and all concerned Block Development Officers during the tour.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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