SHOPIAN, April 24 -- District Administration Shopian today celebrated National Panchayati Raj Day at the Mini Secretariat here, underscoring the importance of empowering local self-governance and strengthening grassroots democracy.

The event was chaired by DC Shopian, Shishir Gupta, who spoke about the crucial role Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) play in promoting participatory development and responsive governance at the village level.

During the programme, DC held a brief counselling session with parents and teachers, sensitizing them about the rising threat of drug abuse among youth.

He urged proactive involvement from families and educational institutions in guiding the younger generation and pledged the administration's continu...