New Delhi, April 22, 2025 – On the occasion of the 17th Civil Services Day held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, presented the transformative progress achieved under the Aspirational Block Programme (ABP) in Rajouri district, Jammu & Kashmir. The presentation, delivered in the presence of Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Rao Inderjit Singh, and Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), V. Srinivas, highlighted the district’s success in bridging developmental gaps through data-driven governance and community participation.
The Aspirational Block Programme, an initiative by NITI Aayog, aims to accelerate development in underdeveloped blocks across India by focusing on key performance indicators such as health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure. In Rajouri, the Khawas block has emerged as a model of progress under this program, with significant improvements in citizen-centric services and inter-departmental coordination.
During the Breakaway Session IV themed “Aspirational Blocks Programme,” DC Sharma showcased how Rajouri’s administration adopted innovative strategies to address challenges in remote areas. The efforts were lauded for their emphasis on data-driven governance, community participation, and effective collaboration between departments, setting a benchmark for other districts. The session was part of a broader platform for civil servants to share best practices and recognize exemplary contributions to public administration.
The 17th Civil Services Day, organized by DARPG, served as a significant event to honor excellence in public service. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conferred the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration, recognizing outstanding work in implementing priority programs and fostering innovation. The event also featured discussions on critical themes such as urban transportation, health, and nutrition, chaired by prominent Union Ministers.
Posts on X reflected widespread appreciation for Rajouri’s achievements, with users commending DC Sharma’s leadership and the district’s progress under the ABP. The recognition at this prestigious event underscores Rajouri’s commitment to Viksit Bharat and the transformative potential of NITI Aayog’s initiatives.