Baramulla: Deputy chief minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Saturday said that National Conference is dedicated to restoring statehood to the region and that they consider Jammu and Kashmir as state, and not a Union Territory.
Speaking with reporters, Choudhary said that they are clear on their stand over restoration of statehood and they continue to fight against the forces that downgraded J&K to a Union Territory.
He also said that security forces should strengthen measures and carry out their duties diligently and terror attacks must stop.
He also highligted lack of representation that Jammu and Kashmir faced over the past decade due to absence of a stable government.
“We were distanced from the people under the previous regime, which often overlooked the issues that matter most to Kashmiris. Now, we are committed to addressing these concerns,” he said.
He also inaugurated Water Supply Scheme at Sopore’s Fruit Mandi, Asia’s second largest fruit marketplace.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, Minister for Agricultural Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar and MLA Sopore Irshad Ahmad Kar.
This critical infrastructure constructed under PMDP at the cost of Rs. 6.37 crore will now ensure provision of clean and safe drinking water for thousands of traders, workers and visitors who frequently visit the mandi.
In his address, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the importance of ensuring essential services like clean drinking water in such a large trading hub. He emphasized that the Water Supply Scheme is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support economic growth by improving basic infrastructure.
Chaudhary emphasised that this Water Supply Scheme will not only provide clean drinking water to the mandi but will also enhance the quality of life for thousands who work here every day. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, making it more conducive to trade and economic growth.