Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Rakesh Kumar chaired a meeting on February 12 at the Conference Hall, Baroo, Kargil, to discuss the preparation of the Annual Action Plan (AAP) 2026–27 under VB-GRAMG (formerly MGNREGA).

The meeting was attended by Sub-Divisional Magistrates of Drass, Sankoo, Zanskar, and Chiktan, along with officers from various departments including Police, Engineering Wings, Revenue, Forest, Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Education, Health, Social Welfare, Tourism, Fisheries, PMGSY, and other concerned sectors. The participants provided valuable inputs for finalizing the action plan.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the formulation of the AAP must strictly adhere to the latest VB-GRAMG guidelines to ensure effective and inclusive implementation of developmental works across the district.

During the deliberations, he stressed the need for innovative and productive works under the scheme, with a focus on sustainable development and optimal utilization of resources. Participants also raised concerns regarding the impact of rapidly melting glaciers, highlighting the need to include flood protection measures such as crate work under VB-GRAMG.

The Deputy Commissioner underlined the importance of feasibility and meticulous planning at every level and directed that consultations with Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Gram Sabha-level planning be strengthened to ensure successful implementation of the action plan.
Highlighting livelihood enhancement, he instructed the concerned departments to promote innovative agricultural activities, including increased pea cultivation in Zanskar and the establishment of demonstration farms to enable farmers to adopt improved practices for better productivity and economic benefits.

The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the implementation of the e-Office system and expressed concern over the lack of proper detailing in official communications. He urged officers to adopt e-Office in letter and spirit, emphasizing that it ensures transparency, efficiency, and effective performance monitoring.

Discussions were also held on improving the education sector. The Deputy Commissioner directed gazetted officers to conduct field visits to assess school requirements and submit reports under Samagra Shiksha and other schemes, with special focus on technology support and basic infrastructure to improve educational outcomes.

Additionally, he raised concerns about the underutilization of government buildings and instructed departments to relocate offices from private accommodations to available government infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and workplace facilities.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on coordinated planning and timely preparation of the Annual Action Plan 2026–27 to ensure effective execution of developmental works and welfare programmes across Kargil district.