SRINAGAR, Oct 1: A senior Ministry of Rural Development official on Wednesday reviewed the implementation of rural development schemes in Srinagar, with a focus on improving outreach, strengthening coordination among government departments and ensuring that benefits reach more people in rural areas.
Altaf Hussain Haji, Deputy Director General (DDG) in the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, and the ministry’s designated area officer for Jammu and Kashmir, is visiting the Union territory from Sept. 30 to Oct. 3 to review the implementation and progress of various rural development schemes in Srinagar and Anantnag districts.
During his visit, Haji attended a training program on Viksit Bharat Gram Panchayat (VB-GRAMG) organized by the Department of Rural Development for block development officers from Srinagar and Ganderbal districts.
Addressing the officials, Haji emphasized greater convergence among government schemes, increased awareness of rural development programs and identification of low-development Gram Panchayats for focused interventions. He said targeted efforts would help such panchayats move toward becoming Viksit Panchayats in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
During a field visit, Haji, accompanied by Srinagar Assistant Commissioner, Rural Development, Traq Ahmad Reshi, and other officials, interacted with Self-Help Groups, beneficiaries and other stakeholders involved in rural livelihoods and development programs in Khonmoh and Qamarwari blocks.
He also interacted with members of the Umeed Ka Zaika Self-Help Group, which has gained recognition in Jammu and Kashmir within three to four months of its formation.
Haji observed that Self-Help Groups operating under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) were making notable progress. Members expressed their commitment to achieving the goal of becoming Lakhpati Didis and subsequently aspiring to become Crorepati Didis.
Haji also reviewed the implementation of various rural development schemes in Srinagar and discussed measures to improve their outreach and ensure that intended benefits reach more beneficiaries.
Officials of the Srinagar district administration were advised to expedite implementation of ongoing rural development schemes and strengthen efforts aimed at improving the well-being of rural communities. Haji also stressed the need for grassroots awareness programs to ensure that people are informed about government schemes and the benefits available to them.
Haji emphasized greater convergence among government departments and schemes to improve implementation meet targets and maximize benefits for beneficiaries.
At the concluding stage of his Srinagar visit, Haji met officials of the Rural Development Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. The officials discussed progress in implementing various rural development schemes and issues affecting their effective delivery.
The meeting also focused on resolving minor implementation-related issues and further strengthening the delivery of rural development programs across Jammu and Kashmir.