Budgam, January 10, 2026:
The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, in collaboration with the District Administration Budgam, organised a Media Workshop ‘Vartalap’ here on Friday to familiarise journalists with the provisions, objectives and implementation framework of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
The day-long programme was inaugurated by District Development Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, who was the chief guest. Around 45 journalists from Budgam district participated in the workshop.
Addressing the gathering, the District Development Commissioner said that the media plays a crucial role in translating complex policy reforms into information that is easily understood by the public. He said informed and factual reporting contributes to transparency, accountability and effective implementation of government programmes at the grassroots level. Highlighting the importance of the Viksit Bharat–GRAMG Act, 2025, he said it marks a significant shift in rural employment policy and requires active media engagement to ensure that its benefits reach rural households in a timely and accurate manner.
In his welcome address, Director PIB Srinagar, Qazi Salman, spoke about the reforms and transformational aspects introduced under the Viksit Bharat–GRAMG framework and emphasised the role of the media in spreading awareness and ensuring accurate dissemination of information.
The workshop included two technical sessions on the operational aspects of the Act. Syed Jaasirah Syedain, Block Development Officer, explained the general features of the scheme, while Tafheem Shah, Block Development Officer, elaborated on its key pillars and the integration of technology in its implementation. Both sessions were followed by interactive question-and-answer discussions.
Chief Planning Officer, District Budgam, Javaid Ahmad Najar, said the media has an important responsibility to disseminate information that benefits society and supports the smooth execution of development programmes.
During the workshop, emphasis was laid on enhanced employment guarantees, creation of durable assets, decentralised planning and strengthened accountability mechanisms. It was also highlighted that the Act aligns rural employment generation with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, ensuring transparency, timely wage payments and integration with rural infrastructure development.
The sessions were moderated by Majid Pandit, Media and Communication Officer, PIB Srinagar. The Vartalap Media Workshop aims to strengthen coordination between the government and the media to promote transparent and effective communication on development initiatives.
