RDD Kargil Conducts District-Level Workshop on Panchayat Advancement Index.

RDD Kargil Conducts District-Level Workshop on Panchayat Advancement Index.
Kargil, November 20, 2025: The Rural Development Department, Kargil conducted a district level workshop on the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) today at Conference Hall, Baroo. The programme was held under the leadership of the Secretary, Rural Development Department, UT Ladakh, and under the guidance of the Director, Rural Development Department.
The event was graced by Hon’ble Executive Councillor, RDD, Er. Punchok Tashi as the Chief Guest, Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), and Assistant Commissioner Development Kargil, Shafiq Ahmed (JKAS) attended as Guest of Honour and Special Guest respectively.
The workshop began with a welcome address by DPO Kargil, Raziya Khatoon (JKAS), who extended greetings to all dignitaries, line departments, and participants. She noted that the workshop aims to strengthen Panchayat-level governance through assessment-based planning. She highlighted that RGSA focuses on capacity building of PRIs and Panchayat functionaries across nine thematic areas and described PAI as a “report card of the Panchayat” reflecting performance in planning, service delivery, and governance. She also emphasized the crucial role of line departments in improving Panchayat outcomes through convergence. A detailed introduction to the RGSA Scheme was delivered by Master Trainer, Dr. Irfan Shafi.
Executive Councillor, RDD, Er. Punchok Tashi enlightened the workshop by appreciating the dedicated efforts of all BDO’s and VLWs. He appealed to the Government that flagship programmes should be implemented keeping in view the unique topography of the region, emphasizing that schemes must be area-oriented to achieve better outcomes.
ADC, Imteeaz Kacho emphasized the significance of accurate data collection, timely reporting, and coordinated departmental efforts to improve the overall ranking of Panchayats in the district. He highlighted that the Panchayat Advance Index not only promotes accountability but also helps identify areas needing focused interventions.
He urged officers to work in close collaboration with local Panchayats, ensure seamless flow of information, and adopt a result-oriented approach to rural development. The ADC also stressed the importance of community participation and inclusive planning to achieve sustainable grassroots progress.
Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Mohd. Shafeeq addressed the audience and highlighted that Ladakh, in comparison to many other States and UTs, stands far ahead due to its unique natural advantages such as minimal pollution, low population density, fewer communicable diseases, a lower insect population, and overall being at least 70% better in these aspects than many other districts of the nation. He added that almost 70% of the region is endowed with rich natural resources, providing immense potential for sustainable development.
He stressed that achieving this requires sincere public effort, especially a positive change in mindset. He emphasized that these inherent strengths offer a solid foundation for growth, and therefore an integrated and coordinated approach is essential for ensuring sustainable and holistic development across the region.
Following the inaugural session, participants attended structured technical sessions covering themes: From Global Goals to Local Action; The PAI Approach; PAI 1.0 – Report Card & Portal Demonstration; and PAI 2.0 – Enhancements and Insights. The sessions focused on the process of data collection, evaluation frameworks, digital portal usage, and improvements under PAI 2.0.