PASIGHAT, 28 Jul: Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing on Tuesday stressed the importance of empowering rural institutions and strengthening grassroots governance.

Addressing an orientation programme for panchayati raj and rural development functionaries here in East Siang district, the minister said that orientation programmes are being conducted at different locations across the state to ensure wider participation, reflecting the government’s commitment towards holistic rural development.

He urged the participants to disseminate the knowledge gained during the programme to the village level, so that the benefits of various government initiatives reach every citizen.

Emphasising the importance of the 16th Finance Commission, the minister said effective implementation of government schemes requires practical understanding and problem-solving at the grassroots. He urged officers and public representatives to act as facilitators, and appealed to all citizens to contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Tasing further urged officials to empower rural communities by ensuring effective implementation of schemes such as SBM (G), SPR, VB-G RAM G, and other flagship programmes for the benefit of unemployed youths and villagers.

Adviser to the minister, Taniya Soki, highlighted that capacity-building programmes play a vital role in strengthening panchayati raj institutions and improving rural governance. He stressed the need to empower elected representatives, enhance digital literacy among grassroots leaders, and foster mutual respect and cooperation between government officials and elected representatives.

Earlier, East Siang ZPC Ruth Tabing Boko encouraged the participants to actively engage in the technical sessions to enhance their understanding of rural development schemes, grants, and panchayati raj matters.

The technical sessions featured presentations by resource persons on the schedule of rates (SOR) and outcome-based service rating (OSR), the 15th Finance Commission, convergence of schemes, Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), VB-G RAM G, SECURE and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).

East Siang DC (i/c) Pebika Lego also spoke. (DIPRO)