Focus on inclusive development, quality execution and grassroots participation
Kathua, July 18: District Development Council Kathua in its meeting held today approved the District Capital Expenditure Budget for the financial year 2025-26, amounting to Rs 7452.53 lakhs. The approved budget includes Rs 913.62 lakhs for ongoing works and Rs 6538.91 lakhs for new development proposals. The Capex plan aims to strengthen infrastructure, improve service delivery and push forward district-wide growth through focused investments across key sectors.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Dr Rakesh Minhas, while addressing the Council, emphasized that all development works must be completed in a time-bound manner with strict adherence to quality standards. He informed that the Capex Plan has been formulated after duly incorporating the works proposed during Gram Sabhas, thus ensuring grassroots inclusion. He appreciated the active role played by the members of the Council and officers of various departments in advancing the development agenda over the last four years.
Chairman District Development Council Kathua, Col (Retd.) Mahan Singh, also appreciated the sustained efforts of the members and departmental teams in implementing projects across the district. He stressed that DDC members must be consulted at the DPR preparation stage to ensure that the plans reflect the actual local needs. He further urged the members to monitor the execution of works and ensure their timely and quality completion.
Vice Chairman DDC Raghunandan Singh commended the cooperation and dedication shown by both elected members and officials in delivering visible development outcomes. The meeting also witnessed several suggestions and demands from Council members reflecting local aspirations. DDC Marheen demanded the construction of washrooms at the community hall, while DDC Bani called for immediate replacement of damaged transformers in his area. DDC Keerian Gandyal appreciated the progress made by PMGSY in road connectivity. DDC Nagri requested that recruited labourers be provided with ECH facility. DDC Lohai Malhar raised concerns over electricity issues, road connectivity, and urged for the organization of a Block Diwas to address public grievances.
The Council resolved that the allocated funds shall be utilized for capital projects in key sectors such as education, groundwater, health, ICDS, PDD, RDD and other departments. It was further resolved that priority shall be given to projects aligned with the district’s strategic development goals. The District Administration will be submitting quarterly progress reports to the Council for review, and the District Treasurer has been authorized to disburse funds in accordance with the approved budget and applicable financial rules.
Earlier, Chief Planning Officer Kathua, Ranjit Thakur, gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining the current development scenario of the district.
ADDC Kathua Surinder Mohan, other District and Sectoral Officers were also present.
