JAMMU, DECEMBER 12: Javed Ahmad Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, chaired a meeting to review the progress of the Cluster Tribal Model Villages and other tribal welfare initiatives in Poonch district. The meeting, attended by the Deputy Commissioner of Poonch and district officials via video conferencing, focused on the timely execution and completion of various development projects for the tribal community.
The Minister stressed the need to expedite all ongoing and pending works, urging the Deputy Commissioner to regularly review the status of Tribal Welfare projects to ensure their timely completion. Rana also emphasised the importance of quality in execution, convergence models, and focused efforts in tribal areas, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, soil conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.
During the review of the Cluster Tribal Model Villages, the Minister reiterated that the initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to uplifting tribal communities by providing modern infrastructure and essential amenities. The Deputy Commissioner presented both the physical and financial progress of the projects under the cluster model.
On the Jal Jeevan Mission front, the Minister highlighted some complaints regarding the project’s implementation and urged officials to resolve the issues on a priority basis while ensuring work quality. He also instructed the district administration to complete near-finished projects promptly and dedicate them to the public at the earliest.
Rana directed the Director of Tribal Affairs to closely monitor the progress of all tribal welfare projects in coordination with district officials to ensure maximum outreach and that no eligible beneficiaries are left out. He also advised the Deputy Commissioner to address encroachments at the Mendhar bus stand and submit a traffic management plan for the town. The Minister further stressed the importance of addressing public concerns, including overcharging by transport vehicles, calling it a priority issue for the public.
The Minister concluded by appreciating the efforts of the officers in reaching out to tribal communities and urged them to involve locals in the planning and execution of projects.