Review meet held to discuss pending Keylong issues

In a significant outreach move, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly held a detailed review meeting in Keylong, Lahaul and Spiti district on Sunday, marking its first-ever district-level visit. Chaired by MLA Anil Sharma, the meeting took place at the DC Office auditorium and was attended by Deputy Chief Whip Keval Singh Pathania and legislators Dr Hans Raj, Jeet Ram Katwal, Inder Singh, Dr Janak Raj, Malender Rajan and Captain Ranjeet Singh.

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The committee focused on pending audit paragraphs highlighted in the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India’s reports for the fiscal years 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2020-21. Departments such as Revenue, Jal Shakti, and Technical Education came under detailed scrutiny, with PAC members seeking accountability and urging prompt redressal of long-standing issues.

PAC Chairman Anil Sharma underscored the importance of these field visits, stating that such engagements aim to bridge the gap between reports and action. He announced that similar district-level visits will soon be carried out across Himachal Pradesh. To ensure transparency and targeted welfare, Sharma directed officials to submit data regarding fund allocations and expenditure under the Backward Sub Plan and Tribal Sub Plan over the past three years. He stressed that government funds must be utilised within the stipulated timelines to avoid lapses.

Sharma also emphasised the need to improve core infrastructure in Lahaul and Spiti, including roads and electricity supply. He noted the transformative role of the Atal Tunnel, which has provided all-weather connectivity to the region and has significantly boosted tourism. Encouraging the district administration to capitalise on this development, he called for new initiatives to further promote tourism in the valley.

Ahead of the meeting, PAC members visited the scenic Shinkula Pass and Deepak Tal, witnessing firsthand the region’s tourism potential.

Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana welcomed the committee and assured full implementation of the recommendations and directives issued during the session. The meeting was also attended by SP Ilma Afroz, DFO Aniket, Keylong SDM Akanksha Sharma, Udaipur SDM Alisha, DSP Rashmi and senior officers from various departments.