Port Blair, Feb 12: A State Level One Day Orientation programme on Preparation and Implementation of Block Development Plan (BDP), a new initiative by Ministry of Panchayati Raj was organized by the State Panchayat Resource Centre under RGSA Scheme in the conference hall of Directorate of RD, PRIs & ULBs.

The preparation of the Block Development Plan is a time-bound process and a part of chain of plans to be prepared after completion of GPDPs by Gram Panchayat. The Block Development Plan, which is planned and implemented at the block level would ideally cater to people’s needs, provide basic services and meet their aspirations with optimal utilization of the available resources. It is to mention that BDP would be in convergence with all line departments and their schemes prepared through a participatory, inclusive and transparent process.

The One day Orientation was specially conducted for the Block Development Officers of all blocks across the A & N Islands, who will be the Chairperson of the implementing committees and got trained by State Level Master Trainers from NIRD&PR.

The Director (RD/PRIs) addressed the need and importance of BDP in the UT, and congratulated the participants for being the first State/ UT for timely submission of GPDPs. The SPRC (Head) made the key note address and set the agenda for the training. The SLMTs who are also the Domain experts of SPRC namely Domain Expert-Health& Sanitation, Domain Expert- Women Empowerment and the Domain Expert- IT took various sessions throughout the day which was also live streamed through social medium.

The Secretary (RD/PRIs), Shri Suneel Anchipaka emphasised that a well-planned and effective implementation of BDP will be instrumental in transforming Rural Areas by providing accelerated, participative and inclusive growth of the local populace.