Lahaul-Spiti MLA directs action on seed distribution, stray dog sterilisation

A comprehensive review meeting of the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) for Lahaul was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Keylong. Chaired by MLA and Project Advisory Committee Chairperson Anuradha Rana, the meeting focused on expediting developmental initiatives across departments.

MLA Rana stressed the need for inter-departmental coordination to ensure timely completion of projects and delivery of benefits. She directed the Agriculture Department to adopt a transparent, need-based approach to seed distribution and ensure fertilisers are provided before each farming season. She also called for the introduction of improved seed varieties and better planning based on farmer feedback.

The Dharti Abha Awareness Campaign was reviewed, with Rana encouraging departments to align relevant schemes under its framework. She instructed the animal husbandry department to begin sterilisation of stray dogs next week in Keylong, Udaipur, Gondhla, Gaushal and Tandi, and emphasised timely fodder procurement for livestock ahead of winter.

Amid growing human-wildlife conflict, the Forest Department was asked to take proactive crop protection measures. The PWD was directed to finish the Trilokinath Temple Sarai and Pori fairground projects within two weeks and expedite road connectivity work. Maintenance workers are to be deployed regularly for road upkeep.

The Jal Shakti Department was told to prepare phased action plans to prevent glacier lake outburst flooding in vulnerable villages. The electricity department was urged to fast-track power distribution and upgrade works.

Expressing concern over drug trafficking risks following the opening of the Rohtang Tunnel, Rana directed police to maintain vigilance and enforce a zero-tolerance approach to protect local youth.

The meeting also reviewed progress on infrastructure projects including Kurched road, Eklavya School hostel, Udaipur hospital, CM Rural Road Scheme, winter sports facilities and antifreeze water supply systems. Officials discussed land rates and pending transport, fire safety, and subsidence mitigation issues.

The session was coordinated by Acting Assistant Commissioner and ITDP Officer Kalyani Gupta.