Minister Javid Ahmad Dar Stresses Reforms During Review of Rural Development Department in Jammu
DEC 4:Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj & Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, conducted a comprehensive review of the Rural Development Department (RDD) in Jammu, directing officials to adopt transparent, accountable and people-first practices at every administrative level.
The Minister stressed that efficient implementation of rural development programmes is essential to improving livelihoods, strengthening village infrastructure and ensuring welfare-driven governance across Jammu & Kashmir.
Timely Payments Under MGNREGA a Top Priority
During the meeting, the Minister placed strong emphasis on timely wage payments under MGNREGA, stating that delays directly impact the poorest sections of society who rely on the scheme for employment security. He instructed officers to clear backlogs, streamline documentation and ensure 100% transparency in job card management and work execution.
He reiterated that workers must not face any hardship due to administrative shortcomings, and strict action would follow in cases of negligence.
Water Conservation in Kandi Areas to Receive Special Focus
Highlighting the vulnerability of kandi areas, the Minister called for a major push toward water conservation initiatives. He asked the department to prioritize works such as check dams, water harvesting structures, soil moisture retention activities and rejuvenation of traditional water bodies.
The Minister underlined that combating water scarcity is critical for improving agriculture, livestock productivity and overall rural resilience in these semi-arid regions.
Accelerated Progress Under PMAY-G, SBM-G, RGSA and Watershed Projects
Reviewing flagship rural development schemes, Minister Dar directed officers to speed up implementation and ensure maximum beneficiary coverage. Key directives included:
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PMAY-G: Fast-tracking construction of sanctioned houses and ensuring timely release of installments.
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SBM-G: Intensifying efforts toward solid and liquid waste management and sustaining ODF+ status.
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RGSA: Strengthening capacity-building programmes for PRI representatives to enhance grassroots governance.
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Watershed Projects: Ensuring scientific planning and convergence with other schemes for long-term landscape restoration.
He noted that these schemes play a foundational role in improving quality of life, infrastructure and local governance across villages.
Zero-Compromise Approach on Delays and Inefficiencies
Minster Javid Ahmad Dar issued a clear message that delays, inefficiencies or lack of accountability will not be tolerated. He directed officers to maintain strict adherence to timelines, monitor field-level progress regularly and promote transparency in every stage of implementation.
He urged for stronger community engagement, grievance redressal mechanisms and real-time monitoring to ensure that development works truly benefit the people.
Commitment to a People-Centric Rural Development Framework
The Minister concluded the review by reaffirming the government’s commitment to a people-centric, transparent and efficient rural development system. He expressed confidence that with focused execution and proactive coordination, the RDD can significantly improve service delivery, infrastructure creation and socio-economic upliftment in rural Jammu & Kashmir
