A team of trainee IAS officers continued their field study and research program with an insightful visit to Ahugi Kalan and Bhatwari villages, focusing on rural health infrastructure, progressive farming practices, and community-led initiatives. Officers including Mr. Gangadhari Vikram, Mr. Tandin Wang Chuk, Ms. Srishti Suresh, Ms. Mona Jakhar, Mr. Priya Ranjan, and Mr. Yogesh Rajput inspected the sub-health centers in both villages. At Ahugi Kalan, in-charge medical officer Mr. Awadhesh Kumar briefed them on vaccination efforts for women and children, reflecting ongoing progress in grassroots-level healthcare.
Dragon Fruit Farming Becomes Economic Hope for Women Farmers
During their interaction with the women of the Ujjwala Self Help Group at Bhatwari, the trainee officers received a detailed demonstration of dragon fruit cultivation. The officers appreciated the initiative, noting that the demand for dragon fruit is rising not only within the district but also across various states, offering a sustainable income source for nearly 20–25 years once planted. The project is being seen as a promising model for improving rural livelihoods and strengthening farmer incomes.
At the block headquarters, trainee IAS officer Ms. Mona Jakhar highlighted educational gaps in the aspirational block of Haliya, emphasizing the need for enhanced learning facilities. Block Development Officer Mr. Vijayshankar Tripathi, ADO Panchayat Mr. Rupesh Srivastava, Village Head Mr. Ramesh Maurya, and Mr. Rajesh Maurya were present during the discussion, underscoring administrative coordination aimed at developmental upliftment.
Heritage and Culture Take Center Stage in Administrative Training
As part of their foundation course, a team of 12 trainee IAS officers from Lal Bahadur Shastri Academy, Mussoorie, explored the city’s mythological, historical, and cultural assets. Led by Ms. Deepika from Tamil Nadu, the group visited the ancient Maharishi Ved Vyas Temple along with Tehsildar Mr. Abhinav Tiwari. The officers also viewed the magnificent Chaurasi Gumbad structure, expressing surprise that such a historically rich site remains lesser known nationally.
Industrial Exposure Through Handmade Paper Units
Strengthening their understanding of local industries, the trainee officers inspected handmade paper units within the city. They observed the entire manufacturing process while learning about the ancient legacy of handmade paper from the President of the Handmade Paper Manufacturers Committee, Mr. Narendra Kumar Tiwari, and Mr. Vineet Gupta. Both detailed the unique qualities of handmade paper and its historical significance. District Programme Officer Mr. Sharad Awasthi and several other administrative officials were present during the visit, ensuring comprehensive exposure to governance, heritage, and rural entrepreneurship.
This integrated field learning experience is expected to equip the young officers with a deeper understanding of grassroots challenges, cultural heritage, governance mechanisms and developmental opportunities across sectors.
Also Read: SEBI Board Reshuffle: IRS Sandeep Pradhan Among Leading Names for Whole-Time Member Post
