Srinagar, Sep 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sunday reiterated his endeavor to make Panchayats and urban local bodies run the affairs of local self government in the state in accordance with the aspirations of the people.
 Talking to a deputation of Sarpanchs and Panchs from Mendhar who called on the Chief Minister here this morning, Omar said that involvement of grassroots level public representatives in the governance and implementation of development schemes has attained global significance and revival of Panchayat Raj in the State after the long period of over 30 years is an historic step of his government. He said that Panchayat members should exercise the powers entrusted to them and get completely involved in the development process in their respective areas.
 Omar said that powerful 3-tier Panchayat Raj system is his government’s commitment and decks have been cleared to put in place block councils and district Panchayat councils so that Panchayat Raj gets fully established at all levels.
 The Chief Minister said that capacity building programmes for Sarpanchs and Panchs is already going on and Panchayat members are receiving training to get acquainted with the exercise of powers entrusted to them.
 Omar asked the Sarpanchs and Panchs to rise to the expectations of the people and face the challenges with courage and determination. “Your mission is development of common people and your this cause is a pious cause. You should stand firm on ground and fulfill the commitment made to people”, he said adding that government would ensure all help to Panchayat members in this regard.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 16 Sep 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 16 Sep 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 17 Sep 2012 00:00:00 IST