- Focus on promoting Govt. reforms, Welfare Schemes & Participatory Development Planning
KATHUA: As part of Reform Utsav 2026, Gram Sabhas were organised today across several Panchayats of Kathua district to disseminate awareness about government reforms, welfare schemes and development initiatives, besides providing a platform for public participation in identifying local needs and setting development priorities.
The Gram Sabhas were held at Panchayat Asso in Block Bani, Aglidhar in Block Nagrota Gujroo, Badala in Block Kathua, Barwal East and Barwal West in Block Barnoti, Bobiya in Block Marheen, Bhayia in Block Hiranagar and Basantpur in Block Keerian Gandyal.
During the meetings, officers and officials from concerned departments apprised the participants of various government reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, administrative efficiency and public service delivery. Awareness was also generated about welfare schemes, eligibility criteria, benefits and procedures for availing assistance, with emphasis on ensuring that eligible beneficiaries are not left out.
The Gram Sabhas also facilitated discussions on local development requirements, including basic amenities, essential infrastructure and the implementation of ongoing development works. Residents were encouraged to share suggestions, highlight pressing issues and contribute to identifying practical measures for addressing community needs.
Emphasis was laid on the active participation of Panchayati Raj Institutions, community representatives, beneficiaries and other stakeholders in development planning, implementation of government programmes and monitoring of outcomes. The deliberations underscored the importance of public participation in ensuring that development priorities reflect the needs and aspirations of local communities.
The District Administration has rolled out a phased plan to cover all Panchayats of the district through such Gram Sabhas, with the objective of expanding public awareness, facilitating access to welfare schemes and strengthening participatory decision-making at the grassroots level.
Through the initiative, Reform Utsav 2026 seeks to promote citizen-centric governance by bringing the administration and the public together for awareness, consultation and coordinated action towards inclusive and sustainable rural development.

