Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse today chaired a Mega Block Diwas event at LoC Keran, to ensure redressal of grievances and developmental issues of the people living in far flung border area at their doorsteps.
The Block Diwas was attended by ACR Kupwara, Peerzada Mumtaz Ahmad; Chief Education Officer Kupwara, Mehraj-u-din Shah; Tehsildar, BDO Keran, besides, other District/Block Level Officers and general public.
While addressing the Block Diwas function, the Deputy Commissioner said that Keran has immense potential for growth, and the Government is giving special attention to its overall development through several flagship initiatives like Aspirational Block Development Programme (ABDP) and the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP), which are designed to bring holistic progress to border areas like Keran.
Under the Vibrant Village Programme, the DC directed the concerned departments to formulate a comprehensive action plan to fulfill the developmental needs of Keran, with a focus on improving basic amenities and livelihood opportunities.
He also stressed upon the youth to actively enroll under Mission Yuva, which aims to channelize their energy towards skill development and entrepreneurship. Responding to various public demands, the DC reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to improving road connectivity, mobile network coverage, and hospital equipment in the region.
He assured that a separate review meeting will soon be convened with concerned officers to assess the progress of ongoing works and ensure timely redressal of public issues under the Aspirational Block framework.
Emphasizing the importance of education, the DC directed the Chief Education Officer to prepare an action plan to curb school dropout rates, especially among girl students. He also instructed the education department to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to ensure the regular attendance of teachers and staff, thereby improving the overall functioning of schools in the block.
The DC further announced that a Tourist Festival will be organized in Keran to promote tourism and showcase the area’s scenic beauty and cultural richness, thereby increasing tourist inflow and local economic activity.
He also assured that adequate electricity, food, and medical supplies will be ensured during the upcoming winter season so that residents of Keran do not face any hardship. Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner inspected stalls set up by various departments including Fisheries, Agriculture, Health, Revenue, Animal Husbandry, and Education, and reviewed their progress under the ABDP.
He urged upon officers and field functionaries to intensify their efforts for the saturation of developmental indicators, which would enhance the overall quality of life in this remote border block. Prominent citizens and local representatives also spoke on the occasion, highlighting key concerns such as poor mobile connectivity and the need for macadamization of inner roads.
Later, the DC inspected PHC Keran, took a detailed stock of the medical services being provided in the centre, and instructed officers to expedite ongoing projects and ensure visible development on the ground, making Keran more accessible and livable for its residents.