Kohima, August 3 (EMN): Newly appointed minister of Rural Development & REPA, EE Pangteang, today held an interactive session with the officers of Rural Development department in its conference hall, Kohima.
On his maiden visit, the minister emphasised on the importance of the department’s role in employment generation and to facilitate and create avenues to avail opportunity in the rural areas especially at the grassroot level.
He stated that the department with its integrated policy need to mobilise and communicate with the concerned village authorities, VDBs and NGOs to identify the potentials so that self-sufficiency is achieved since their economic well being will directly lead to the improved economy of the State.
Maintaining that programmes like grant-in aid to VDBs, micro financing and matching cash grant is making a big impact on providing infrastructure requirement to the rural people, he advised the beneficiaries of these programmes to ensure that all facilities provided by the government are properly utilised and accounted for through active participation of the VDBs. Towards this end, he said the officers of the department must ensure that socio-economic developments generated are focused to a point where the rural areas can be declared as developed.
The minister further lauded the effort and achievements made by the department towards implementing the various flagship programmes. He also called upon all the officers to rededicate themselves by upholding the numerous responsibilities for the benefit of the rural people, who comprise the vital section of the people.
On various reports pertaining to issues of contract appointment and deputation for which the department has been in the limelight for the past few months, the minister informed that a high level committee would be formed soon for necessary action.
On the occasion, the minister also launched the RDNLKM Bulk SMS for facilitating effective dissemination of information and communication of the departmental programmes and for smooth implementation to all the stakeholders.
Welcoming the minister, Secretary of RD, Kelei Zeliang, has pointed on the numerous responsibilities and challenges bestowed upon the Rural Development. He, however, expressed confidence that the department would overcome all hurdles and strive to achieve new heights for the benefit of the rural people.
Joint Director of RD, K Neibou Sekhose, who also briefed the minister about the activities of the department, urged him to look into the process of cadre review of the department as per rules and at par with other alliance departments.
Project Director, Kohima, Kevipodi, assured the minister of their cooperation as implementing agencies to successfully implement all programmes and activities under the department.
The programme was chaired by Director of RD, Metsubo Jamir, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Additional Director-I, RD, Imlimeren Jamir.
