Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Nov 26: Chairman District Development Council (DDC) Kathua Col (Retd) Mahan Singh today chaired a Council meeting to assess the physical and financial progress under the District Development Plan 2024-25.
The review meeting was attended by DDC Vice Chairman Raghunandan Singh, DDC members, besides Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Surinder Mohan, Chief Planning Officer Ranjit Thakur and district officers from various departments.
At the outset, CPO Ranjit Thakur informed the meeting that 1,747 out of 1,768 approved works for the current fiscal year have been tendered, with 870 projects already allotted. He further reported that 29% of the total allocated budget has been utilized on different development projects. The status of ongoing works under different schemes was also discussed in detail.
Chairman Mahan Singh urged executing agencies and Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members to intensify their efforts to achieve set targets within the stipulated timelines. He emphasized the importance of identifying and resolving bottlenecks proactively to avoid delays in project implementation.
Highlighting the significance of critical sectors, the Chairman stressed on prioritizing road connectivity and expanding banking facilities in remote and uncovered areas to ensure inclusive development. He also underscored the need to create durable assets that directly benefit larger communities.
During the review, the Chairman expressed satisfaction with the pace of work under key departments, including Rural Development, Jal Shakti, PWD, PMGSY, Irrigation, Agriculture, Horticulture, Health, and Education.
The meeting also addressed various issues, such as expediting works under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), early completion of the Gaushala in Keerian Gandyal, and clearing pending liabilities under different schemes.
Vice Chairman Raghunandan Singh appealed to council members and district officers to work collaboratively to serve the public effectively and ensure the successful implementation of development initiatives.