Srinagar, Jan 27: Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary of the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RDDPR) Department, concluded a series of impactful meetings spanning 10 districts in the Jammu region.
The discussions centered around key initiatives and strategies aimed at fostering inclusive growth and development across rural areas.
One of the primary focuses of the meetings was the meticulous planning and implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme.
Dr. Choudhary emphasized the need for a strategic approach to maximize the benefits of the program, ensuring its effectiveness in generating employment opportunities and improving livelihoods in rural communities.
Furthermore, the Secretary underscored the importance of community-centric development initiatives that actively involve local stakeholders in decision-making processes. He stressed the significance of empowering rural communities to take charge of their own development agendas, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and sustainability.
Agriculture emerged as another pivotal area of discussion, with Dr. Choudhary highlighting the significance of promoting modern agricultural practices and providing necessary support to farmers. Emphasizing the role of agriculture in rural livelihoods and economic prosperity, he reiterated the department’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring the welfare of farmers.
Transparency and accountability received special attention during the meetings, with a focus on leveraging technology to facilitate Aadhaar-based payments. Dr. Choudhary emphasized the importance of utilizing Aadhaar authentication to ensure seamless and transparent disbursement of benefits, thereby minimizing leakages and enhancing the efficiency of welfare schemes.
The Secretary’s extensive interactions with officials, stakeholders, and community representatives underscored the department’s commitment to grassroots development and inclusive governance. Through collaborative efforts and strategic interventions, the RDDPR Department aims to drive positive transformation in rural areas, ultimately improving the quality of life for millions of residents across Jammu and Kashmir.
