Bandipora: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health & Medical Education, Sakeena itoo, on Wednesday chaired an extensive review meeting with Heads of Departments (HODs) and District Officers here to assess the progress on developmental activities across Bandipora district.
MLA Bandipora Nizam Uddin Bhat; DDC Vice-Chairperson Kousar Shafeeq, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Manzoor ahmad Qadri; Director Social Welfare Kashmir, Director School Education Kashmir, Director Colleges J&K, Mission Director Poshan J&K, Director Health Services Kashmir, Director Ayush J&K, Director Family Welfare and Immunization J&K, Executive Director Rehabilitation Council J&K, DPO ICDS Bandipora, CEO Wullar Manasbal Development Authority, ACR Bandipora and other concerned officers were present on the occasion.
During the meeting, Minister Sakeena emphasized on the need for efficient implementation of government schemes and urged officials to ensure timely delivery of services to the people. She took feedback from sectoral heads and directed departments to collaborate closely to resolve any bottlenecks.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of the district administration and field officers in implementing welfare measures and assured full support from the government in expediting projects for the benefit of the public.
During the meeting, key issues like road widening projects on Bandipora–Sumbal and Bandipora–Sopore routes, non-functional lift at District Hospital Bandipora, and staff shortages in Health and Education department were discussed.
During the meeting, the Minister laid e-foundation of Lift Irrigation Scheme for augmentation of supplies to New Reshi Khul and Dehgam Khul. She also e-inagurated Composite School at N.M. HSS Kaloosa, Bandipora
Earlier, the Minister accompanied by MLA Bandipora Nizam Uddin Bhat, DDC Vice-Chairperson Kousar Shafeeq, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Manzoor ahmad Qadri and other dignitaries visited Government Degree College (GDC) Bandipora, where she inspected infrastructure facilities and reviewed the pace of ongoing developmental works.
Principal, GDC Bandipora, Dr. Gazala Firdous welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the achievements and developments of the institution since its establishment.
MLA Bandipora, Nizam Uddin Bhat expressed gratitude to the Minister for her visit and raised key infrastructural demands, including the need for a separate library block, auditorium, and development of the college playfield. He stressed that world-class infrastructure is essential for students to excel globally.
In her address, the Minister praised the scenic location of the college but noted the poor condition of the approach road, calling it a challenge for both students and staff. She appreciated the enrolment and efforts of the college administration. She assured that the government is actively addressing infrastructure issues in the education sector and directed the Director of Higher Education to initiate the development of a new library block and asked the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora to take up beautification work on priority.
During an interactive session, students raised concerns about transport facilities, faculty shortages, and delays due to academic arrangements. The Minister assured that transport issues would be resolved, additional vehicles with drivers would be provided, and faculty replacements would be addressed promptly.
Later in the day, the Minister, accompanied by MLA Bandipora, Sakeena Itoo also held a Public Darbar cum Interaction with the residents of Bandipora and listened public grievances and suggestions directly and assured timely redressal.
During the tour of district, the Minister handed over 27 Retrofitted Motorized Tricycles to eligible persons with disabilities under the Department of Social Welfare. She also distributed sponsorship benefits among various beneficiaries to the tune of Rs. 1.23 crores under Mission Vastalya.
