JAMMU, APRIL 16: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a review meeting to assess progress under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investments (SASCI) scheme and to finalize the Annual Action Plan for FY 2026–27 under UT Capex (Community Development).
The meeting was attended by Director Rural Development Kashmir, Shabir Hussain Bhat; Director Rural Development Jammu, Shahnaz Akhter; Director Finance, Umar Khan; Joint Director Planning, Kamal Kumar Sharma; besides senior officers of the R&B and RD&PR departments.
Reviewing the status of SASCI projects, the Secretary was informed that construction of residential accommodation for PRI members and protected persons at Bijbehara (Anantnag) is underway in Kashmir division.
In Jammu division, key projects under execution include two-BHK residential complexes for DDC/PRI members at Udhampur, Reasi, Kathua and Samba; a District Development Council building at Reasi; drainage upgradation works in Mendhar; and construction of BDO office complexes, community halls, guest houses and drainage nallahs in Jammu district.
The Secretary directed both Directors to ensure that UT Capex and District Capex plans are uploaded on the designated portal by April 21, as per timelines fixed by the Chief Secretary. He stressed that proposals must prioritize high-impact, durable infrastructure assets aimed at improving the quality of life in rural areas.
He further instructed that construction of Block Development Officer (BDO) offices be proposed in all blocks where such facilities are not available, to enhance access to administrative and developmental services.
The meeting also reviewed progress under the Viksit Village Scheme, which provides for an allocation of ₹2 crore per Assembly constituency. Under the scheme, one village in each constituency will be developed as a Model Village with creation of key infrastructural, social and economic assets including DEWATS, Plastic Waste Management Units, village museums, entrance arches, selfie points, chaupals, digital labs, public libraries and multipurpose facility centres.
The Secretary directed officers to expedite preparation of DPRs and estimates to ensure timely implementation of the scheme.
