The JK IMPARD in collaboration with District Administration Anantnag today organised a one day extension training programme for PRIs at Dak Bungalow Khanabal, here.The programme was presided over by District Development Commissioner (DDC) Anantnag, Dr. Piyush Singla as Chief Guest and the event witnessed participation of resource persons from JK IMPARD besides officials and PRI members of the district.Dr. Shafia Wani, Faculty Member IMPARD, coordinated the programme and conducted the session while Dr. Mohd Ashraf Malik and other speakers from IMPARD also delivered key lectures on the occasion.During the proceedings, the resource persons discussed Panchayat Governance, Panchayat Financial Management, GPDP, Social Audit and other integral and evolving concepts associated with the Panchayat Raj Institution. The significance of Centrally Sponsored Schemes vis-à-vis development of rural areas and the role of PRIs for their smooth implementation were also discussed threadbare.Addressing the session, Dr. Wani said that for democracy to flourish at grassroots level it is imperative the PRI members be well versed with these vital aspects of local self governance. Mechanisms of Social Audit and Panchayat Financial Management have added more teeth to this pivotal institution, she remarked.Dr. Wani also highlighted the initiatives undertaken by IMPARD with regard to capacity building and empowerment of the PRIs.Hailing the institution for organising these training sessions, the DDC said that such events prove very beneficial and expressed commitment to continue those in future as well.In Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Sectors, the district is marching in tune with other parts of the country and the empowerment of PRIs is being pursued as top priority, he added.