Kathua, 19 July (H.S.): District Development Council Kathua in its meeting held today, approved Rs 7452.53 lakh District Capital Expenditure Budget for the financial year 2025-26.

The approved budget includes Rs 913.62 lakh for ongoing works and Rs 6538.91 lakh 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 Dr Rakesh Minhas, while addressing the Council meeting, emphasized the need to complete all development works in a time-bound manner with strict adherence to quality standards. He informed that the Capex Plan has been formulated after duly incorporating

Chairman District Development Council Col (Retd.) Mahan Singh 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 Nagri sought recruitment of labourers for ECH facility. DDC Lohai Malhar sought augmentation of Power infrastructure, road connectivity and redressal of public grievances.

The Council resolved to utilize the allocated funds 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 Ranjit Thakur gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining the current development scenario of the district.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar