Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RDD&PR), Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting with the Deputy Commissioners to assess progress on implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) in Jammu and Kashmir.
The review focused on key aspects such as the functionality of SBM-G assets, preparation of Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) for 2025-26 and strategies to expedite development of sanitation infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by all District Development Commissioners, Director General SBM-G, Director RDD Kashmir, Director RDD Jammu, Director Panchayati Raj, Director Finance, Additional Secretary, Kartar Singh, Superintending Engineer REW Kashmir, Superintending Engineer REW Jammu, Deputy Director Rural Sanitation Kashmir, all Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACPs) and others.
During the meeting, the Secretary expressed concern over delays in asset creation and functionality in certain districts. Highlighting the pivotal role of Deputy Commissioners, he directed them to personally intervene to address challenges and ensure swift implementation of SBM-G initiatives.
Aijaz Asad instructed the DCs to submit their Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) for 2025-26 within a week. He also asked the Rural Engineering Wing (REW) to accelerate the tendering process for ongoing and upcoming projects to eliminate delays.
He highlighted the need for land identification to establish Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs), Waste Stabilisation Ponds (WSPs) and Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS). The Secretary asked the DCs to take personal interest in facilitating these initiatives, essential for achieving sustainable rural sanitation.
He proposed deputing technical teams and consultants to support capacity building and organising workshops and training sessions for officers and field functionaries to enhance their operational efficiency.
Stressing the importance of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities, the Secretary called for district-specific strategies aligned with local cultures about SBM-G initiatives. He underlined that a strong IEC plan is crucial for success of the programme.
He assured districts of financial support towards the sanitation efforts. Aijaz Asad reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment towards providing safe, hygienic and dignified living conditions for rural communities.
He urged all stakeholders to collaborate effectively to ensure timely completion of projects and optimal functionality of SBM-G assets. DG Rural Sanitation, made a comprehensive presentation on the initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) which included clarification of several issued to the districts by the technical experts.