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  • Key Assets Planned Under Viksit Village in Each Assembly Constituency

JAMMU: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a review meeting to assess progress under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investments (SASCI) scheme and to finalise the Annual Action Plan for FY 2026–27 under UT Capex (Community Development).

The meeting was attended by Director Rural Development Kashmir, Shabir Hussain Bhat; Director Rural Development Jammu, Shahnaz Akhter; Director Finance, Umar Khan; Joint Director Planning, Kamal Kumar Sharma; besides senior officers of the R&B and RD&PR departments.

Reviewing the status of SASCI projects, the Secretary was informed that construction of residential accommodation for PRI members and protected persons at Bijbehara (Anantnag) is underway in Kashmir division. In Jammu division, key projects under execution include two-BHK residential complexes for DDC/PRI members at Udhampur, Reasi, Kathua and Samba; a District Development Council building at Reasi; drainage upgradation works in Mendhar; and construction of BDO office complexes, community halls, guest houses and drainage nallahs in Jammu district.

The Secretary directed both Directors to ensure that UT Capex and District Capex plans are uploaded on the designated portal by April 21, as per timelines fixed by the Chief Secretary. He stressed that proposals must prioritise high-impact, durable infrastructure assets aimed at improving the quality of life in rural areas.

He further instructed that construction of Block Development Officer (BDO) offices be proposed in all blocks where such facilities are not available, to enhance access to administrative and developmental services.

The meeting also reviewed progress under the Viksit Village Scheme, which provides for an allocation of ₹2 crore per Assembly constituency. Under the scheme, one village in each constituency will be developed as a Model Village with creation of key infrastructural, social and economic assets including DEWATS, Plastic Waste Management Units, village museums, entrance arches, selfie points, chaupals, digital labs, public libraries and multipurpose facility centres. The Secretary directed officers to expedite preparation of DPRs and estimates to ensure timely implementation of the scheme.

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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