Port Blair, June 10: The Directorate of Rural Development, Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Andaman & Nicobar Administration under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) has commenced a comprehensive 3-days induction training programme for the newly appointed/promoted Extension Officers, Panchayat Secretaries, and Village Level Workers/Gram Sevika. The programme is aimed to empower the participants with essential knowledge and skills to enhance their contributions to Rural Development and Panchayat governance.

The three days programme commenced with an inaugural session chaired by Shri Shiv Singh Meena, Director (RD/Panchayat).

In his address, the Director (RD/Panchayat) emphasized the significance of this training programme and encouraged the participants to engage deeply in each session. He highlighted that the sessions are meticulously designed by the State Panchayat Resource Centre (SPRC) are crafted to provide a profound understanding of rural development schemes and effective functioning of local self-governments. He also stressed that post-assessment shall also be held in the concluding session of the three days programme. He outlined that the insights gained here will empower to implement and oversee various rural development initiatives successfully, and that active participation and learning will be instrumental in driving the growth and development of the rural communities

Earlier, welcoming the participants, Shri Mohammed Yunus M, EO/State Nodal Officer (RGSA) stressed that as key frontline officials in the field, it is very important to possess the requisite knowledge and be thoroughly aware of each role and its specific functions. He stated that Rural Development and Panchayat Department offers to selflessly work closely with various stakeholders in various villages towards its overall development and public welfare.

A video presentation on a model village was screened during the inaugural session.  The programme concluded with the vote of thanks by Ms. Gurjeet Kaur, Extension Officer.

This induction training programme marks a significant step towards building a more knowledgeable and efficient cadre of officials who will lead rural development initiatives and strengthen the governance of Panchayati Raj Institutions in the A& N Islands.