The Rural Development Department (RDD), Kargil organised a district-level workshop on the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) at the Conference Hall, Baroo on November 20.

The programme was held under the leadership of the Secretary, Rural Development Department, UT Ladakh, and the guidance of the Director, Rural Development Department.

The event was graced by 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 commenced with a welcome address by DPO Kargil, Raziya Khatoon (JKAS), who extended greetings to dignitaries, line departments, and participants. She stated that the workshop aims to strengthen Panchayat-level governance through assessment-based planning. Highlighting the focus of RGSA on capacity building of PRIs and Panchayat functionaries across nine thematic areas, she described the PAI as a “report card of the Panchayat” reflecting performance in planning, service delivery, and governance. She also underscored the crucial role of line departments in improving Panchayat outcomes through effective convergence. A detailed introduction to the RGSA scheme was delivered by Master Trainer Dr. Irfan Shafi.

Executive Councillor Er. Punchok Tashi appreciated the dedicated efforts of all BDOs and VLWs, and urged the Government to implement flagship programmes in line with the region’s unique topography, stressing that area-specific planning is essential for achieving meaningful outcomes.

ADC Imteeaz Kacho emphasized the importance of accurate data collection, timely reporting, and coordinated departmental efforts to improve the ranking of Panchayats in the district. He highlighted that the PAI promotes accountability and helps identify areas requiring focused interventions. He urged officers to work closely with local Panchayats, ensure seamless information sharing, and adopt a results-oriented approach to rural development. He also stressed the importance of community participation and inclusive planning to achieve sustainable grassroots progress.

Addressing the gathering,  ACD Mohd. Shafeeq highlighted Ladakh’s strong comparative advantages—minimal pollution, low population density, fewer communicable diseases, low insect prevalence, and abundant natural resources—placing the region ahead of many states and UTs in terms of development potential. He emphasized that achieving sustainable progress requires sincere public participation and a positive shift in mindset. He noted that Ladakh’s inherent strengths provide a robust foundation for growth, but require an integrated and coordinated approach for holistic development.

Following the inaugural session, participants attended structured technical sessions on key 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 covered processes of data collection, evaluation frameworks, digital portal usage, and improvements introduced under PAI 2.0.