SRINAGAR: The “Group of Concerned Citizens” (GCC), J&K, convened a special meeting here to discuss several pressing issues of public importance. The group unanimously urged the government to prioritize these concerns to alleviate the difficulties faced by common people.
Regarding the “state of health services”, the GCC expressed concern that Srinagar hospitals remain overwhelmed and operate beyond their capacity, largely due to the lack of adequate specialized facilities at the district level, despite the establishment of new medical colleges. They emphasized the urgent need to address these gaps in healthcare delivery at the district level to prevent residents from having to travel to Srinagar for treatment.
In a statement issued here, the group also called for strict enforcement of the existing ban on private practice by doctors posted in medical colleges, hospitals, and SKIMS.
The GCC highlighted the increasing incidence of various cancers and stressed the need for establishing dedicated cancer hospitals in Srinagar and Jammu.
On land use, the group noted the absence of effective policies and actions to curb the rampant conversion of agricultural land for construction. They underscored that agriculture, horticulture, and floriculture are vital sectors, contributing significantly to J&K’s GDP, income, and employment, second only to the services sector. They recommended promoting vertical farming, greenhouses for year-round cultivation, and indoor farming of crops such as mushrooms and certain vegetables and fruits.
The GCC expressed serious concern over the inadequacy of skilling and startup policies in J&K, which do not match the extent of unemployment across sectors. Unlike other states, there are no major initiatives to train students in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
Addressing environmental issues, the group pointed out that rivers, lakes, and water bodies have become dumping grounds for various types of solid waste. They called for a cultural shift in public perceptions and attitudes toward the use of non-biodegradable materials, urging citizens to support agencies responsible for natural resource conservation. The GCC criticized the government for not doing enough to ensure sustainable waste management, including plastics and e-waste, and urged the formulation of actionable policies based on the four Rs of waste management: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover.
Furthermore, the group called for a careful review of any proposals for extending the railway network within the valley, citing concerns over potential impacts on agricultural land and settlements. Nonetheless, they welcomed the extension of the Katra-Srinagar-Baramulla railway up to Kupwara, as well as the expansion of train services from Jammu to Rajouri and Poonch.
The GCC concluded by emphasizing the need for immediate government action across these critical areas to benefit the people of J&K.