District Development Meeting Highlights Cooperative Sector's Role in Rural Economy

In a recent DISHA meeting chaired by Lok Sabha MP Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj, the focus was on the cooperative sector's potential to enhance self-employment and strengthen the rural economy. Key discussions included the acceleration of centrally sponsored schemes, the integration of the Chakki–Chamba–Bharmaur National Highway into NHAI, and the importance of timely project execution. Dr. Bhardwaj emphasized the need for public participation in cooperative initiatives and outlined the progress of various development projects. The meeting brought together local MLAs, district officials, and community members to discuss strategies for improving infrastructure and services in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 30, 2026, 17:05 IST

Key Outcomes from the DISHA Meeting

Subhash Mahajan
Chamba

The District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) convened today at the Savings Bhawan, led by Lok Sabha MP Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj.

During the meeting, Dr. Bhardwaj highlighted the significant impact the cooperative sector can have on creating self-employment opportunities and enhancing the rural economy. He urged officials to implement cooperative schemes effectively and promptly, while also promoting public involvement in these institutions to broaden livelihood options.

In reviewing the progress of centrally sponsored initiatives, Dr. Bhardwaj called for an acceleration of development projects. He pointed out that integrating the Chakki–Chamba–Bharmaur National Highway into the NHAI framework would facilitate better maintenance and hasten the construction of double lanes. He also commended the successful execution of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, which has improved road connectivity.

Addressing concerns regarding the slow advancement of the centrally funded RDSS scheme, he urged the implementing agency RVNL to expedite the process. He mentioned that ₹90 crore is allocated to enhance the district's power supply network, emphasizing the need for timely benefits to reach the community.

Additionally, Dr. Bhardwaj instructed officials to submit the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Ravi Riverfront Development Plan to the Central Government via the State Government, ensuring the necessary financial backing for the initiative.

The meeting also reviewed the progress of several key schemes, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College, PMGSY, NH-154A, RDSS, Jal Jeevan Mission, National Health Mission, Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana, social pension schemes, PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Samagra Shiksha, and MPLADS. Departmental officers provided comprehensive updates on their implementation.

Present at the meeting were MLAs Dr. Hans Raj and D.S. Thakur, along with Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal, who welcomed attendees and shared insights into the district administration's initiatives. Non-official members Krishna Mahajan, Manoj Kumar, Subhash Thakur, SP Vijay Kumar Saklani, Additional DC Amit Mahra, and senior officials from various departments also participated.