DC Bandipora reviews VVP-II, Aspirational Block Programme & CAPEX at Badugam

• Engages public, assesses developmental needs in Tulail

BANDIPORA: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, on Wednesday chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Guest House R&B Badugam, Tulail, to assess the implementation of Vibrant Village Programme (VVP-II), Aspirational Block Programme and CAPEX works, as part of her ongoing tour of Sub-Division Gurez.

The meeting was attended by senior officers including PO ICDS Bandipora, SDM Gurez, Principal GDC Tulail, ACP, CMO, CEO, DSHO, Executive Engineers of PMGSY and KPDCL, officers from Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, NRLM, Forest, ITI, Tourism, Banking and other line departments.

During the meeting, officers presented detailed proposals and sector-wise plans for inclusion under the Vibrant Village Programme. It was informed that 29 villages are being covered under the programme across four thematic areas, with 26 villages already covered and 3 pending.

The Deputy Commissioner reviewed proposals related to infrastructure development, tourism promotion, agriculture and allied sectors, education, skill development and livelihood generation.

Threadbare discussions were held on key projects including PMGSY Phase-IV roads, electrification under RDSS, mobile connectivity in border areas, and strengthening of health and education infrastructure. The DC emphasized timely completion of works, better inter-departmental coordination, avoidance of duplication in funding, and efficient utilization of resources.

Reviewing sectoral issues, the Deputy Commissioner directed departments to focus on tangible infrastructure improvements rather than mere procurement, and asked all departments to submit revised action plans within a stipulated timeframe. She also stressed the need for saturation of developmental indicators, including completion of girls’ toilets in schools, healthcare facilities, and essential services in remote areas.

The meeting also deliberated on livelihood generation initiatives under NRLM, promotion of agriculture, animal husbandry, wool processing, and development of medicinal plants. Officers were directed to identify beneficiaries, ensure bank linkage, and facilitate skill training and entrepreneurship among youth.

Issues related to connectivity, including road access for heavy vehicles on Bandipora–Gurez road, mobile network gaps, and requirement of ATMs and transport facilities for students, were also discussed. The Deputy Commissioner directed concerned authorities to take necessary steps for early redressal.

On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner also listened to public grievances and demands. Locals raised concerns regarding winter hardships, health infrastructure, staff shortages, transportation, and other basic amenities. She assured that all genuine issues would be addressed in a time-bound manner.

Emphasizing participatory governance, the Deputy Commissioner urged officers to conduct regular field visits and engage directly with the public to ensure effective implementation of schemes. She reiterated that Tulail requires focused attention and directed all departments to prioritize development works in the region.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the administration’s commitment towards holistic and inclusive development of border and remote areas under various flagship programmes.