Early Times Report
Jammu, Apr 28: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday described Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a “true friend and well-wisher” of the Union Territory, affectionately referring to him as “Mama” during a public function in Srinagar.
Speaking at the launch of the second phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV) at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre, the Chief Minister said Chouhan has consistently supported Jammu and Kashmir’s developmental needs over the past one-and-a-half years.
“The title ‘Mama’ suits you. We have accepted you with the same affection and trust. You have strengthened our relationship and shown unwavering commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir,” Abdullah said while addressing the Union Minister.
During the event, Chouhan not only launched PMGSY-IV but also released Rs 4,568.23 crore as the central share for 24 states and Union Territories under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihood Mission, giving a fresh push to rural livelihood initiatives.
Highlighting the Centre’s support, Abdullah termed the approval of nearly Rs 8,000 crore for road and rural development projects as “extraordinary,” stating that such a large sanction in a single phase reflects strong backing for the region. He assured that the government would fast-track implementation and ensure that work on the ground begins soon.
The Chief Minister said sustained engagement with the Union Minister has strengthened coordination between the Centre and the UT government. “We will ensure that the approved road and rural development projects are taken up expeditiously and implemented in a time-bound manner,” he added.
Emphasising the impact of PMGSY, Abdullah said the scheme has transformed connectivity in remote and hilly areas of Jammu and Kashmir. “Villagers who once had to walk for hours to reach the nearest road are now connected through motorable roads. Phases II, III and now IV have improved access to hospitals, schools and markets,” he noted.
He reiterated that strengthening rural infrastructure remains a key priority, particularly in sparsely populated and far-flung areas. “Our strength lies in our villages. Our heritage and economy are rooted in rural areas, and we are committed to strengthening the rural economy in every possible way,” he said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing initiatives under rural development and livelihood missions, including the promotion of self-help groups and women-led enterprises. He stressed the need for greater support to agriculture and horticulture sectors, particularly through crop insurance mechanisms, citing weather-related challenges faced by farmers.
Abdullah assured that all projects approved under PMGSY-IV would be implemented in mission mode to ensure timely completion and improved connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir. |
