DEC 27 : Minister Javed Ahmed Rana on Tuesday chaired a virtual review meeting to assess the progress of ongoing developmental works in Poonch district, reiterating the government’s commitment to timely, transparent and quality-driven execution of projects aimed at improving public services and infrastructure in the border district.
During the meeting, the Minister reviewed sector-wise progress of various development initiatives being implemented by different departments. He emphasised that delays and cost overruns undermine public trust and directed officials to ensure expeditious completion of all sanctioned works within the stipulated timelines. Stressing accountability at every level, he underlined that development must be visible on the ground and should translate into tangible benefits for the people.
Javed Ahmed Rana laid particular emphasis on maintaining quality standards in execution, stating that substandard work would not be tolerated under any circumstances. He instructed officers to adhere strictly to approved designs, technical specifications and financial norms, and to conduct regular field inspections to ensure compliance. The Minister said quality infrastructure not only ensures durability but also optimises public expenditure, thereby strengthening governance outcomes.
Highlighting the importance of transparency, the Minister directed departments to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and improve inter-departmental coordination. He stressed that progress reports must reflect actual ground realities and not merely procedural compliance. To reinforce financial discipline, he ordered strict linkage of payments with physical verification of works, ensuring that funds are released only after satisfactory on-site inspection and certification.
The Minister also reviewed the status of projects being implemented under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), which aims to improve power infrastructure, reduce losses and ensure reliable electricity supply. He directed officials to ensure effective and timely implementation of RDSS components in Poonch, noting that improved power supply is critical for economic activity, public convenience and overall quality of life, especially in remote and hilly areas.
Emphasising the need for a people-centric approach, Javed Ahmed Rana urged officers to remain responsive to public grievances and local priorities while planning and executing projects. He said development works must address genuine needs of the population, including better roads, water supply, electricity, healthcare and education infrastructure, particularly in far-flung and border areas of the district.
The Minister also called for enhanced use of technology in monitoring and reporting, stating that digital tools can help improve efficiency, transparency and real-time assessment of project progress. He directed concerned departments to strengthen data reporting systems and ensure timely updates to senior अधिकारियों to facilitate informed decision-making.
During the review, district and sectoral officers briefed the Minister on the status of ongoing works, challenges faced in execution and measures being taken to overcome bottlenecks. Javed Ahmed Rana assured full support from the government for addressing genuine constraints, but made it clear that laxity, negligence or procedural delays would not be accepted.
Concluding the meeting, the Minister reiterated that holistic development of Poonch district remains a top priority for the government. He said sustained monitoring, timely execution, financial prudence and quality assurance are essential to ensure that development initiatives deliver long-term benefits and improve the standard of living of the people.
The virtual review meeting reflected the government’s continued focus on strengthening governance, enhancing infrastructure and ensuring that public funds are utilised efficiently for inclusive and sustainable development across Jammu and Kashmir
