Wagoora Gram Panchayat in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir has achieved third place nationally in the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar (DDUPSVP) 2025. The award acknowledges excellence in grassroots governance and rural development under the theme “Socially Just and Socially Secured Panchayat.”
National Award for Wagoora Panchayat
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Wagoora Gram Panchayat, located in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, has been recognized with the third rank at the national level in the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar for 2025. This prestigious award, established by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj, specifically honors panchayats that demonstrate exceptional performance in creating a socially just and secure environment within their communities, promoting inclusive and sustainable rural development.
The national competition saw participation from numerous Gram Panchayats across all Indian states and union territories. Wagoora’s accomplishment is particularly noteworthy given the vast scale of the competition and a stringent, multi-layered evaluation process. This process assessed performance on the ground, various governance indicators, and the verified implementation of development initiatives.
Recognition for Rural Governance
Javid Ahmad Dar, who holds portfolios as Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative, and Elections in Jammu and Kashmir, extended his congratulations to the Wagoora Gram Panchayat. He described the award as a significant milestone for local governance within the Union Territory, highlighting its importance in the broader framework of rural development.
The minister further commented that this national recognition is a testament to the effective planning undertaken at the grassroots level, the robust community participation fostered, and the adoption of data-driven governance strategies. He specifically mentioned the PAI 2.0 framework, which has been instrumental in strengthening rural institutions and advancing inclusive development across Jammu and Kashmir. These efforts have culminated in tangible improvements in the lives of rural residents.
Additionally, Minister Dar acknowledged the dedicated efforts of various officials from the Rural Development Department. Their contributions, including those from the Secretary, Director Panchayati Raj, Deputy Secretary, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Budgam, and Block Development Officer BK Pora, were crucial in facilitating the achievement of this national honor for Wagoora Gram Panchayat.
The Chenab Times News Desk