Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, conducted an extensive inspection of multiple developmental initiatives in Akhnoor and Pargwal blocks of Jammu District on Saturday. The visit focused on assessing progress, addressing public concerns and reinforcing community-driven sustainability efforts.
At Panchayat Sungal C, the Secretary reviewed the newly constructed Plastic Waste Management Unit, which serves three blocks and was established at a cost of Rs 65 lakh. He stressed the need to raise awareness among the local population, urging them to deposit plastic waste at designated locations instead of disposing it randomly.
He also highlighted the importance of involving self-help groups in this process. He stated that the unit not only contributes to environmental protection but also generates employment opportunities. He also reviewed the activities of self-help groups operating under the Jammu and Kashmir National Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) and encouraged them for their products.
Responding to the request from women-led self-help groups for a kitchen shed and a sanitary complex, he directed the concerned officials to commence the construction work for the kitchen shed and CSC. During the tour, the Secretary also inspected the Panchayat Ghar and the under-construction library in Sungal Lower Panchayat. He instructed that a sanitary complex be built at the site.
Ajaz Asad also reviewed the GOBARdhan unit at Gurha Brahmana East, which has the capacity to generate two gas cylinders daily. The project supplies gas to 15 nearby households through a pipeline. The Secretary was informed that the project has enabled them to switch from firewood to gas, which is not only more affordable but also more convenient.
To ensure the sustainability of GOBARdhan, the Secretary assigned the responsibility of monitoring the plant’s to the respective Block Development Officers. He emphasised that the maintenance of these units should be self-sustained through revenue income. He stated that the department will soon organize a workshop to train relevant personnel and community members in operating these units efficiently.
He reiterated that local communities play a crucial role in success of these projects and directed that a local committee be formed to oversee operations and receive necessary training. Furthermore, the Secretary conducted a detailed review of developmental works under Mahatma Gandhi NREGA, PMAY-G, SBM-G, UT Capex and other schemes in Akhnoor and Pargwal blocks.
He instructed the officials to ensure that all PMAY houses and Panchayat Ghars are completed within the stipulated timeframe besides constructing community sanitary complexes wherever required. He also inspected the CSC, Plastic Waste Management Unit and other development projects in Pargwal Lower Panchayat.
During his visit, the Secretary met with border residents who expressed concerns over difficulties in reaching their fields during the rainy season due to deteriorated pathways and the challenge of crossing water channels. Addressing their concerns, Ajaz Asad directed for construction of culverts over local water channels and development of footpaths to facilitate smoother movement for the residents.
During the tour, MD NRLM, Subhra Sharma, Additional Secretary, Wasim Raja, ACD Jammu, ACP Jammu and other officials were also present.