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Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) in collaboration with the Government of Bihar held A two-day National Conference on “Holistic Development of Districts” on September 11-12, 2025, in Patna, Bihar.
 
Five guiding pillars outlined for holistic district development emphasizing that progress must be comprehensive, inclusive, and citizen-centric.

• saturating government schemes to the last mile,
• fostering convergence between Centre, State, and Panchayati Raj Institutions,
• encouraging stakeholder participation,
• innovation in governance,
• replication of successful models nationwide.

Abuot holistic development of a district

• The holistic development of a district refers to a comprehensive, inclusive approach focused on improving multiple socio-economic dimensions simultaneously.
• It aims to foster balanced growth in health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, financial inclusion, governance, and community participation to uplift the quality of life and economic potential of the entire district.

Prominent Initiative: Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP)

• Launched in 2018, ADP targets underdeveloped districts to transform them through a focus on improving foundational sectors using a competitive and convergent approach.
• It rated districts monthly on 49 indicators grouped into health & nutrition, education, agriculture & water, financial inclusion & skill development, and infrastructure.
• The programme replaces the notion of "backward districts" with an aspirational identity that fosters pride and competitiveness among districts to drive inclusive growth.
• Targeting 100 districts for agricultural enhancement based on the Aspirational District Programme’s model.

Strategic Framework for District Development

• Preparation of inclusive district profiles and SWOT analysis.
• Visioning and planning district growth trajectories aligned with state and national goals.
• Identification and support of key sectors driving district growth.
• Formation of actionable and time-bound development plans.
• Addressing policy gaps and strengthening local governance mechanisms.

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