Panchayat polls on cards: Javid Dar

Srinagar, Mar 24: Minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday said the government is preparing to hold panchayat elections, with necessary formalities currently underway.
Speaking during his Rafiabad visit, the Minister said the administration is putting required mechanisms in place before announcing the election schedule. “We are ready for panchayat elections. Some formalities need to be completed. Once that is done, elections will be held,” he said.
On the OBC reservation issue, the Minister said the matter is being evaluated. He said discussions are ongoing and the policy will be implemented after completion of the required process.
Highlighting development works in Zaingeer Rafiabad, Dar said several projects have been initiated over the past year, adding that efforts are underway to revive tourism potential in the region, particularly in Zaloora, which was once a popular trekking destination linked to Lolab Valley.
The Minister said the more projects are in the pipeline including a Dak Bunglow at Bomai village, with focus remains on improving infrastructure over the next two to three years.
He also acknowledged gaps in healthcare and education, including demands for a secondary school and a primary health centre, and said these will be addressed in a phased manner.
The Minister further said a Rs 22 crore proposal for Zaingeer has been submitted under the Central Road Fund. The plan includes development of around 30 kilometres of roads covering multiple villages, including Brath, Shankergund, Harwan, Zaloora, Bomai, Yedipora and Yamran.
He said visible improvements will be seen in the coming years as efforts continue to strengthen infrastructure and public services in the region. (KNO)