Peerzada Shariq Shopian 21/12/23:
In line with the ambitious outreach program of Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY), Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), visited the remote Heerpora Panchayat on the Mughal Road in Shopian district. The rural outreach initiative, witnessing widespread participation from the public and stakeholders, featured the presence of DDC Council members, BDC members, PRI representatives, and enthusiastic locals.
As part of the program, Secretary Sarmad Hafeez administered the pledge of Viksit Bharat to the participants and toured stalls set up by various departments. These stalls aimed to raise awareness, deliver on-the-spot services, and register beneficiaries for various schemes.
Sarmad Hafeez praised the efficient and hassle-free government service mechanisms, highlighting how hundreds of schemes provide significant benefits to people through online channels within stipulated timelines. He specifically mentioned the health sector schemes of AB PMJAY, underscoring their role in enabling people to access healthcare services free of cost.
While commending NRLM activities in marketing agricultural produce in the area, he encouraged local residents, especially youth, to explore different self-employment opportunities for economic development.
Describing VBSY as a novel connect initiative, Secretary Hafeez noted that it enables the administration to address people’s issues at their doorsteps and promotes public engagement in the developmental trajectory.
He praised the district administration for saturating public welfare schemes and stressed the need to publicize government initiatives widely to ensure that the benefits reach the unreached and cover all eligible populations.
During the event, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) vans raised awareness about various centrally sponsored schemes. Calendars and other IEC materials were distributed among the public, and the event featured captivating cultural performances by local artists.
Secretary Hafeez also distributed sports kits among the youth to equip them for participating in sports activities. He listened to the issues raised by public representatives and activists, urging officers to proactively consider these demands for appropriate action.
Expressing gratitude for active public participation, ADDC Dr. Nasir Ahmad Lone presented concluding remarks. ADC Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz, Joint Director YS&S Waseem Raja, ACD, ACP, district officers, civil society members, officials, and local beneficiaries were also present at the event.
