MAKHACHKALA, March 7 – RIA "Dagestan". Sergei Melikov, Head of the Republic of Dagestan, met with President Vladimir Putin to discuss the region's socio-economic progress. Melikov reported on key projects and achievements across multiple sectors, emphasizing improvements in living standards and economic growth.
Over the past five years, Dagestan has launched 12 modern industrial enterprises and expanded its educational infrastructure, opening 111 new schools and 97 kindergartens while renovating 374 schools and 63 kindergartens. In healthcare, authorities constructed 122 rural primary medical care facilities, renovated 329 medical facilities and supplied hospitals and clinics with more than 3,000 units of new equipment.
Agricultural production reached notable milestones, with nearly 295,000 tons of fruit harvested—the highest growth index in the North Caucasian Federal District—and a record grape harvest of 302,000 tons in 2025, the largest since the 1980s.
Support for participants of the special military operation and their families remained a priority, with more than 41,000 tons of humanitarian aid dispatched to the frontline. Through the "Valor of the Mountains" reintegration program, seven veterans have been appointed to government positions.
Officials also addressed ongoing electricity supply challenges while noting Dagestan's progress in renewable energy. Solar and wind projects have attracted investor interest, positioning the republic among Russia's green energy leaders. Additional discussion covered water infrastructure, tourism, waste management, road construction and housing resettlement.
Melikov thanked the president for sustained support on regional issues, noting that many initiatives have advanced toward implementation.