GANDERBAL: In a bid to boost developmental initiatives in the district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shyambir Saturday presided over a crucial meeting to deliberate on the MGNREGA convergence plan 2024-25 with various line departments.
The focus of the discussion centered on creating public assets for the overall advancement of the district.
Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Dr. Bashir Ahmad provided a comprehensive overview of the MGNREGA Convergence annual action plan for the fiscal year 2024-25. He highlighted that out of the 266 permissible works under MGNREGA, a substantial 182 are related to Natural Resource Management (NRM). Notably, 166 of these works are aimed at directly creating productive assets linked to agriculture and allied activities.
During the meeting, the DC underscored the significance of strategic convergence with various departments, including Agriculture, Fisheries, NRLM, Food Supplies, Forestry, Horticulture, and Irrigation. He urged all departments to adopt innovative strategies to enhance land productivity, improve livelihoods, and build robust infrastructure for irrigation.
Furthermore, the promotion of livelihoods through horticulture, sericulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and other relevant line departments was emphasized.
The Assistant Director FCS&CA was urged to identify suitable locations for creating Food Grain Storage Structures in the district to enhance ration storage capabilities. The Agriculture department was directed to collaborate with all Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in the district to create valuable assets.
Shyambir emphasized the importance of setting targets for departments under the convergence plan. He also stressed the need for creating individual assets for vulnerable sections of society and highlighted the necessity of common infrastructure for NRLM, including Rural Haats for livelihood activities for various self-help groups.
He urged for collective efforts and unwavering commitment among departments to address the needs of vulnerable segments of society. Prioritizing works associated with natural resource management was identified as a key focus area for the district.
The DC called for unity and collaborative action to turn the ambitious MGNREGA Convergence Plan 2024-25 into a reality, fostering sustainable development and inclusive growth in Ganderbal.
The Additional District Development Commissioner, Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani; Chief Planning Officer, Irfan Giri; ACD, CEO, Executive Engineers of various wings, and other district officers attended the meeting.