DC reviews progress of Multi-Sector Developmental Works in Rajouri District, seeks timely completion

RAJOURI: To review the developmental scenario, implementation of public welfare schemes and address bottlenecks in project implementation, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, chaired a comprehensive inter-departmental review meeting here today in Dak Bungalow. The meeting emphasized equitable distribution of resources across all subdivisions and the expedited implementation of projects.

Additional District Development Commissioner Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa briefed the chair regarding the progress of the ongoing schemes, highlighting achievements and identifying challenges requiring immediate attention.

The DC took stock of the progress on aspirational toilets, Material Recovery Facilities (MRF), compost pits, bio-remediation projects, Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) convergence, asset utilization, sewage treatment plants for used water, water body rejuvenation, street vendor welfare, and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U).

The financial and physical progress of JJM schemes was reviewed, and officers were directed to expedite their completion to ensure the timely delivery of water supply schemes. The functioning of Kisan Khidmat Ghars was assessed, with directives to establish pending units. District Statistical and Evaluation Officer (DSEO) was tasked with verifying progress.

Progress was reviewed for Animal and Sheep Husbandry, Sericulture, Floriculture, Fisheries, Horticulture, National Health Mission (NHM), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), JAKEDA, RDSS, and FPMA. DC also directed to identify locations for high-density apple plantations in Thanamandi, Kotranka, and Rajouri.

Discussions focused on the blacktopping of Bella Bus Stand, completion of the hospital at Thanamandi, and the shifting of the SDM office to the old hospital building. Progress on the Ayush building in Ujjan, the 180-bedded district hospital, incomplete bridges, the Gujjar and Bakerwal hostel in Sunderbani and Budhal, and NABARD-funded filtration plants was reviewed. Forest clearance issues, particularly for the National Highway, were resolved.

Reviewing MGNREGA works, the DC directed the low-performing blocks to enhance their progress and improve indicators. It was informed that 100% tendering has been achieved for 4,772 RDD works. The CEO was directed to improve the quality of adult education, monitor Mid-Day Meal (MDM) schemes, and expedite works under Samagra Shiksha.

The review covered achievements of ICDS, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, TSP, Article 273, women empowerment hubs, and One-Stop Centers. The food safety initiatives, menu implementation, and Poshan Tracker status were highlighted. The DMO reported that even as 22 mining sites are currently operational, most of these will close due to environmental clearance expiry. The DC directed timely applications for short-term and disposal permits to ensure uninterrupted construction activities.

Emphasis was laid on improving beneficiary e-KYC under NFSA. Departments like Irrigation, Flood Control, R&B, and PMGSY presented updates on ongoing projects. The DDC stressed the need to focus on the tribal population, especially Bakerwals, ensuring their inclusion in government schemes and enhancing their access to adult education facilities.

The meeting concluded with the DC reiterating the importance of equitable scheme distribution, timely project execution, and improved monitoring mechanisms to achieve developmental goals. The meeting was attended by ADDC Rajouri Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa, ADC Kalakote Mohammad Tanveer, ADC Nowshera Babu Ram Tandan, ADC Sunderbani Mohammad Jahangir Khan, ACR Rajouri, DMO Mohammad Sayeed, SDM Thanamandi Sheraz Ahmed, ACD Rajeev Magotra, DFO Rajouri Rajeev Sharma, DFO Nowshera Shweeta Deona, EXENs from PWD and other departments, and senior district and sectoral officers.