JAMMU, July 26: Terming effective Panchayats as essential component for rural emancipation, Minister for Medical Education, R.S.Chib, today emphasized the need for stronger coordination between the people, the government and the Panchayat representatives for all round growth and development. Chairing a high level meeting held here to review the status of basic public utilities in border areas of R.S.Pura tehsil with emphasis on power and water supply, the Minister observed: “Development is a common need, which must not suffer just for petty self-interests; it should, in fact, be a collective endeavour”. Referring to the power requirement in the rural areas, particularly for irrigational tube wells and domestic use, the Minister exhorted upon the administration to be extra vigilant and prompt in maintaining the transmission lines, transformers and other associated grid stations keeping in view the summer season. He said that the requirement of electric poles and maintenance of transmission lines is of utmost importance, especially when the people are reeling under scorching heat in summer season. Responding to farmers’ demand of compensation for their damaged paddy crops during last year, the Minister directed the revenue authorities to ensure disbursement of relief due to them at the earliest. The Deputy Commissioner said that necessary directions have been issued to the SD and Tehsildars in this regard and the same will be done within the shortest possible time. Chib directed the other departments including R&B to further speed up the pace on various ongoing road projects besides instructing the SE Hydraulic to ensure adequate supply of canal water for irrigation. He also asked the concerned to ensure maintenance of tube wells meant for drinking water so that these remain functional. Interacting with the Sarpanchs of different Panchayats of R.S.Pura block, the Minister stressed upon them to play a pro-active and key role for rural development in complete coordination with the officers and employees of departments connected with rural development. He appealed the people to ensure their optimum participation under MG NREGA so that development process and public welfare gets a new fillip. Regarding development of cremation grounds, the Minister impressed upon the need of dock tailing the NREGA scheme for their construction. Chib assured the Sarpanchs that the Coalition government is determined to satiate the aspirations and development needs of the rural lot. “Though three years in office is a short span for any government yet the achievements stand testimony to the fact that sincerity of purpose and single mindedness can be instrumental in dispensing responsive and accountable governance”, he said, adding that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah proved beyond any doubt that he can lead the State to new heights of peace and prosperity. The Sarpanchs also raised various public issues including appointment of Panchayat secretaries in R.S.Pura, engagement of labour under MGNREGA for road constructions etc.