Port Blair, June 15: The 3rd meeting of State Planning Board was held under the chairmanship of the Lt Governor, Lt Gen (Retd) Bhopinder Singh, PVSM, AVSM in the conference hall of Raj Niwas here today. The meeting thoroughly discussed achievements of the 11th Five Year Plan and new schemes of Annual Plan-2012-2013, and the 12th Five Year Plan.
Speaking on the occasion, the Lt Governor directed the departments to ensure that all the schemes and projects meant for the welfare of the people are implemented on the ground in right earnest. He stated that the departments must strive to reach at the door step of the people with the welfare schemes rather then people approaching the departments for basic amenities. He further directed the departments for ensuring that all buildings are utilized for the purpose for which these are constructed as mere construction of buildings and not utilizing these assets cannot be justified. He also laid emphasis on proper utilization of the funds for the earmarked purpose. He lauded the PRIs in the Islands and stated that PRIs here are doing commendable works compared to PRIs in other parts of the country. He directed that PRIs must be involved in all areas of development. Describing tourism, fisheries and IT as sectors with ample scope, he stated that what is needed is earnest efforts to tap these vast resources available in these sectors for which a systematic growth pattern has to be adopted, he added.
The Member of Parliament, Shri B.P. Ray also highlighted a number of issues pertaining to the welfare of the people of the Islands for incorporation in the annual plan.
The Chairperson, SWAB, Chairperson, PBMC and Zilla Parishad Adhyakshs of South Andaman and N&M Andaman also highlighted various issues concerning their respective areas.
The Chief Secretary, Shri Anand Prakash, senior officers of the Administration and department heads were also present in the meeting.
