In the wake of recent cross-border shelling incidents that resulted in civilian casualties and widespread damage, the government has appointed senior IAS officers as “Mentors” to oversee relief and rehabilitation efforts in the affected border areas. This initiative was formalized through a government order issued on May 8, 2025.
As part of this initiative, Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture Production Department, became one of the first appointed mentors to visit the ground. On Thursday, he conducted a field visit to the Poonch district, covering areas including Surankote, Mendar, and the border village of Mankote—locations that have borne the brunt of the recent shelling.
During his visit, Kumar interacted directly with affected families, extending condolences to those who lost loved ones and assuring them of comprehensive support from the government. In Mankote, he visited the home of a woman who was killed in the shelling and offered heartfelt sympathies to her family, promising that all necessary aid and assistance would be provided without delay.
He directed the district administration to adopt a proactive, people-first approach in implementing relief and rehabilitation measures, emphasizing swift response and community engagement.
Poonch Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal briefed Shailendra Kumar on the current status of relief operations, restoration work, and ongoing efforts to support displaced and injured civilians.
