BY EOK NEWS DESK
Jammu, Feb 1: The Jammu and Kashmir Regional Branch of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA JKRB) held its 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, witnessing a record participation of life members. Several suggestions were made to enhance the branch’s effectiveness as a platform for good governance discussions.
In his presidential address, Dr. Ashok Bhan, IPS (Retd), Patron of IIPA JKRB, emphasized the need for innovative capacity-building programs for government departments.
“The JKRB of IIPA should inspire excellence in governance, making it more responsive to human needs and aspirations,” Bhan said. He stressed the importance of transforming IIPA into a quality training institute for government personnel and urged the Executive Committee to conduct training programs on Atmanirbhar Bharat, Mission Karmayogi, cyber-crimes, social media, environmental conservation, and new criminal laws.
Bhan also proposed the creation of an annual event bringing together academia, government, civil society, and students to brainstorm on governance issues. He further suggested training programs for newly elected civic body members to educate them on their duties and responsibilities.
Welcoming the 100 new members, he urged them to contribute actively with innovative ideas.
B.R. Sharma, IAS (Retd.), Chairman of IIPA JKRB and State Election Commissioner, highlighted the branch’s growth and achievements.
“IIPA JKRB has consistently ranked among the best branches in the country, a recognition of the collective effort of past leadership and members,” he said. He reaffirmed efforts to maintain this standing and pointed out the branch’s unique achievements, including its own building and grant-in-aid status.
Sharma also congratulated J.A. Khan, IAS (Retd.), for receiving the Paul H. Appleby Award, a prestigious honor in IIPA.
“The EC will consider the suggestions made by members to further enhance the institute’s role in good governance,” he added, calling upon new members to be active and committed.
Prof. Alka Sharma, Honorary Secretary, IIPA JKRB, presented the 2024 annual report, highlighting various capacity-building programs for government officers.
“For the first time, we have undertaken two research projects for the Social Welfare Department, one of which has been completed and submitted,” she stated.
Vikrant Kuthiala, Honorary Treasurer, presented the Annual Statement of Accounts, which was approved by the AGM.
The event featured a welcome address by Er M.M. Gupta, Director (Seminars), who reflected on JKRB’s 45-year journey from a makeshift office to an established institution. Manoj Pandita, JKPS, Joint Director (Seminars), delivered the vote of thanks, while Prof. Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary, conducted the proceedings.