90 villages to be transformed into model growth centres: Aijaz Asad
JAMMU: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, chaired a meeting to review the Draft Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed ‘Viksit Village’ initiative, envisaging holistic development of one village in each Assembly constituency across Jammu and Kashmir.
With a proposed allocation of ₹2 crore per village and an outlay of ₹1,800 lakh under the 2026–27 capital expenditure budget, the programme aims to transform 90 villages into model growth centres.
The initiative seeks to create self-reliant, economically productive and environmentally sustainable villages through comprehensive development covering infrastructure, digital smart libraries, modern crèche facilities, well-equipped youth gymnasiums, dedicated recreation centres for senior citizens, advanced solar power infrastructure facilities, skill empowerment & career development facilities, community sports excellence hubs, solid and liquid waste management and livelihood generation opportunities.
Emphasising alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Secretary stressed scientific planning, community participation, convergence across departments and adherence to technical standards. He directed that DPRs incorporate sustainability components such as solar lighting, rainwater harvesting, DEWATS and Plastic Waste Management Units, while ensuring geo-tagging, third-party inspections and ODF Plus standards.
He directed that villages be identified in coordination with elected representatives, with DPRs to be finalised within two days of identification. Implementation is to be planned over two years, with the selection process to be completed by March.
Senior officers, including Directors of RDD Jammu and Kashmir, Director Finance and Joint Director Planning attended the meeting.