Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today participated in the Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Sammelan 2026, organised by the Union Ministry for Rural Development.

During the event, the Rural Development Ministers from States and Union Territories deliberated on strengthening the rural infrastructure, housing, livelihoods and inclusive development under various flagship programmes.

The two day national conclave, chaired by Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, provided a platform for reviewing the progress of flagship rural development schemes and strengthening the Centre-State cooperation for achieving the vision of a developed rural India.

During the deliberations, Javid Ahmad Dar projected the key concerns and developmental priorities of Jammu and Kashmir. He sought enhanced support from the Government of India for effective implementation of rural development programmes across the Union Territory.

The Minister called for early clearance of pending MGNREGA liabilities to ensure uninterrupted execution of development works and timely payment of wages. He also sought enhanced support under PMGSY, particularly for maintenance of completed road assets and improved connectivity to eligible habitations located in difficult and remote terrain.

Highlighting the unique geographical, climatic and topographical conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister stressed the need for greater flexibility in implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes to enable better outcomes on the ground. He also urged the Government of India to continue extending support for strengthening the rural livelihoods, promoting self-employment through Self Help Groups and rural enterprises besides expanding the rural housing and basic infrastructure in remote and border areas.

Javid Dar reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir government remains committed to transparent, accountable and result-oriented implementation of all rural development programmes. He said the focus of the government is to create sustainable rural infrastructure, generate livelihood opportunities and ensure that the benefits of welfare schemes reach every eligible household.

The Minister also emphasised the need for greater convergence among the flagship programmes and stronger grassroots institutions to maximise developmental outcomes and accelerate inclusive growth in rural areas.

Expressing gratitude to the Union Government for organising the Sammelan, the Minister said such interactions provide an important opportunity for States and Union Territories to exchange experiences, share best practices and collectively shape policies for rural transformation.

He expressed confidence that the issues projected by Jammu & Kashmir would receive positive consideration from the Government of India, further strengthening the Centre’s continued support for the holistic and sustainable development of the Union Territory’s rural landscape.