SRINAGAR: Secretary of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RDD&PR), Mohammad Aijaz Asad, has directed Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across Jammu and Kashmir to submit their Annual Implementation Plans (AIP) for 2025-26 under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) within a week.
Chairing a comprehensive review meeting, Aijaz Asad emphasised the urgent need to accelerate the implementation of SBM-G projects. He expressed concerns over delays in asset creation and functionality in some districts and urged DCs to personally address challenges to ensure the swift execution of initiatives.
The Secretary instructed the Rural Engineering Wing (REW) to expedite the tendering process for ongoing and upcoming projects to minimise delays. He also called for the immediate identification of land for establishing Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs), Waste Stabilisation Ponds (WSPs), and Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS).
To enhance operational efficiency, Aijaz Asad proposed deploying technical teams and consultants for capacity-building workshops and training sessions for officers and field staff. He also underscored the importance of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns, urging DCs to develop district-specific strategies aligned with local cultures to raise awareness about SBM-G initiatives.
The Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring safe, hygienic, and dignified living conditions for rural communities. He assured financial support to districts for advancing sanitation efforts and achieving sustainable rural development.
The meeting, attended by all District Development Commissioners, senior RDD officials, and technical experts, included a presentation by the DG Rural Sanitation. The presentation outlined ongoing SBM-G initiatives and clarified district-specific issues raised during the session.
