DC Anantnag during Gram Diwas

Anantnag, Feb, 14: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, SF Hamid (IAS) on Saturday conducted a Gram Diwas and public grievance redressal programme at Sheikhgund, Shangus, held at Government Middle School, Sheikhgund.

Addressing the gathering, the DC congratulated the residents and noted with pride that Sheikhgund was recently mentioned by the Prime Minister in the 130th episode of Mann Ki Baat on 25th January, acknowledging the village’s collective resolve against drug abuse and tobacco consumption.

The recognition at the national level, he observed, has infused renewed motivation among residents and has encouraged other areas of the district to undertake similar grassroots initiatives. He further congratulated social activists of Sheikhgund for their exemplary efforts under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. He stated that the village has set a benchmark in community-led social reform and is now inspiring other villages and panchayats to initiate similar movements towards a drug-free society.

On the occasion, the DC also inaugurated the Social Reform Movement Kashmir and felicitated social activists, teachers, and local youth for their outstanding contributions towards social reform and community service, particularly in the fight against drug abuse.

Responding to the suggestion about community development, the DC reiterated the commitment of the district administration towards time-bound and transparent resolution of all genuine public demands. Emphasising youth empowerment, the DC directed the concerned departments to organise a

Mission YUVA camp in the village next week, with participation from departments such as-Horticulture, Agriculture, and Banking institutions to ensure that eligible youth are facilitated under self-employment and livelihood schemes. He further stated that the proposal for establishing a handicraft/handloom training centre for female artisans would be explored in consultation with the competent authorities. The programme was attended by the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Block Development Officer (BDO), Child Development Project Officer (CDPO), Assistant Executive Engineer (PHE), Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO), and officers and officials from various line departments, besides residents and representatives of social organisations.

Greater Kashmir was the first to report the village’s anti-tobacco campaign on December 23, 2024.