Early Times Report
RAMBAN, Feb 13: The Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, organized an Integrated Watershed Management Programme at New Bus Stand, Ukhral, marking the arrival of the Watershed Yatra Campaign 2025 in district under WDC PMKSY 2.0.
The Yatra Vehicle was flagged in by District Development Council Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Shan in presence of MLA Arjun Singh Raju. ADDC Roshan Lal, Project Manager IWMP (ACP) Mohammad Ashfaq , DSEO Ganesh Kumar, Tehsildar Nasir Javed, BDO Shahid Saleem and other officials and civil society representatives were also present.
The campaign aims to enhance water conservation, promote sustainable land management and empower local communities through effective watershed development strategies.
Addressing the gathering, the DDC Chairperson emphasised the importance of integrated watershed management in improving soil moisture, enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for rural communities.
The MLA Ramban lauded the initiative, highlighting that watershed development is crucial for tackling water scarcity and mitigating environmental challenges in the region.
Other speakers stressed the role of community participation in the successful implementation of watershed projects and urged local stakeholders to actively engage in the program.
Providing insights into WDC PMKSY 2.0, the Project Manager IWMP outlined the initiative's focus on rainwater harvesting, afforestation, and soil conservation. He informed that seven panchayats of Block Ukhral have been included under the ongoing watershed plan, aiming to treat 3,300 hectares of land to improve ecological balance and water retention.
The event featured a range of awareness sessions, technical demonstrations, and interactive discussions to build the capacity of local communities in sustainable watershed practices. The main attractions of the Yatra included administered of pledge, Bhumi Pujan, Paani Ki Patshala, Shram Daan, Lok Arpan, Selfie point Screening of informative videos, Plantation drives, Debate competition, Cultural programs, and Poetry recitations on the importance of watershed conservation. Various departments also set up information stalls to educate the public about government schemes related to water conservation and sustainable agriculture.
Later, the Chief Guest felicitated participants and contributors for their efforts in advancing watershed management and rural development. The Watershed Yatra Campaign 2025 is a significant step towards water security, ecological balance, and rural prosperity, reinforcing the administration's commitment to holistic and sustainable development. |
