KUPWARA: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Tuesday inaugurated a Block Development Council (BDC) building at Kralgund in Kupwara district.
MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad accompanied the minister during the inauguration.
Constructed at a cost of ₹97 lakh, the building is intended to serve as the administrative centre for the Block Development Council and provide residents with a local platform to raise developmental issues and grievances.
Addressing the gathering, Dar said strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions remained an important component of the government’s decentralised development framework. He said local bodies and elected representatives should play a greater role in identifying priorities, planning development works and monitoring their implementation.
The minister also emphasised transparency, accountability and efficient utilisation of public resources in the execution of development projects. He directed officials to ensure adherence to approved specifications, timely completion of works and proper monitoring of ongoing projects.
Dar called for greater coordination between government departments, elected representatives and local communities to ensure that development initiatives address local needs effectively.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad highlighted the development potential of Kupwara district, particularly in the agriculture, horticulture and rural development sectors. He called for focused investment and interventions to strengthen livelihoods and generate employment opportunities in the region.
The event was attended by Director Rural Development Kashmir, the Additional Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Assistant Commissioner Development Handwara and other officials.
