BUDGAM, NOVEMBER 29: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat today carried out an extensive field visit to Charar- i-Sharief and Chadoora areas of Sub-Division Chadoora, during which multiple developmental, agricultural and heritage-conservation works being executed under various departments were reviewed in detail.
The visit encompassed a thorough assessment of ongoing initiatives under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP 2024–25), inspection of the Shrine and Bada Talab development project at Charar-i-Sharief, and inauguration of a new library-cum-study space for students at Chadoora.
During his visit to Charar-i-Sharief, the Department of Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare, Zone Charari Sharief, presented an overview of its ongoing activities, programme implementation status and infrastructure upgrades currently underway.
The DC was briefed about major interventions being executed under HADP with the aim of strengthening protected agriculture, diversifying vegetable production and supporting high-value crops across Budgam district.
Under the HADP 2024–25, the DC inspected the Hi-Tech Poly House established for beneficiary of Nagam of Sub-Division Chadoora. The project has been sanctioned under the component “Promotion of Exotic Vegetables under Open & Hi-Tech Systems” with a total estimated cost of ₹22 lakh. The Agriculture Department has extended 95% financial assistance amounting to ₹20.58 lakh to support the establishment of the structure.
The Concerned Officers explained that the project is aimed at promoting exotic vegetable cultivation through modern protected-agriculture techniques to enable higher productivity, season extension and enhanced income generation for farmers.
During the inspection to Hi-tech poly houses ,the DC said that these interventions are expected to significantly improve the district’s capacity for cultivating high-value exotic vegetables and to boost the adoption of climate-resilient production systems. He observed that the promotion of Hi-Tech Poly Houses will help bring diversification into the agriculture sector and will provide farmers with access to modern, sustainable and market-driven technologies.
The DC emphasised that timely completion, adherence to quality standards and continued beneficiary handholding must be ensured by the department to achieve maximum impact on the ground.
During the visit to Charar-i-Sharief area , the DC also reviewed the progress of the prestigious “Development of Shrine and Bada Talab at Charar-i-Sharief” project, which is being executed under the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology & Museums, Kashmir. The project carries an Administrative Approval of ₹487.10 lakh and includes a series of key components such as construction of an ornamental canopy, development of stone pathways, installation of boundary fencing, construction of toilet blocks and guard rooms, and placement of Signage boards aimed at enhancing the overall cultural and infrastructural environment of the revered shrine area.
The Concerned Officials apprised the DC that the project has achieved an overall physical progress of 75%, with individual components ranging from 50% to full completion. An expenditure of approximately ₹220 lakh has been incurred so far.
The DC said that the development of the shrine and Bada Talab precincts will significantly uplift pilgrim amenities and improve the cultural, spiritual and aesthetic landscape of Charari Sharief. The executing agency was instructed to ensure timely completion of the remaining works while maintaining the prescribed quality benchmarks.
Later, the DC Inspected Chadoora bridge, which was recently affected by floods and closed for public transportation for necessary renovation and repairs.
The DC inaugurated the Ignite Space Library-cum-Study Room at Chadoora, a newly created academic facility designed to provide a dedicated learning environment for students, aspirants and local youth. The space has been developed to support self-study, reading and examination preparation in a modern, well-equipped and peaceful setting.
The DC remarked that such educational spaces play a crucial role in motivating students and helping them access conducive and resourceful environments for academic growth, competitive exam preparation and skill development.
The DC also interacted with field officers, staff members and beneficiaries to assess implementation challenges, public needs and progress on the ground.
He said that sustained monitoring, inter-departmental coordination and timely execution remain key priorities for ensuring visible developmental outcomes across Budgam.
The DC further emphasised that the district administration remains committed to strengthening agriculture infrastructure, preserving cultural heritage and improving public amenities for holistic and inclusive development.
Besides JD planning Javaid Ahmad , SDM chadoora , ACD budgam , CAO, CAHO, concerned executive Engineers, Tehsildar’s, other District and sectoral officers accompanied the DC during his Visit.
