Launches key infrastructure, entrepreneurship initiatives in Kathua, Samba districts
Kathua/Samba: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday conducted comprehensive district review meetings in both Kathua and Samba districts, emphasizing the importance of timely project completion, transparent governance, and sustainable development.
In Kathua, the Chief Minister inaugurated development projects worth ₹11.58 crore aimed at strengthening infrastructure, boosting local entrepreneurship, and creating employment opportunities. Key initiatives included the Bamboo Crafts Common Facility Centre at Sallan (₹2.87 crore), Kathua Kriti Showroom for marketing local products (₹41.51 lakh), and the Agarbatti Common Facility Centre at Billawar (₹3.39 crore). Additionally, he inaugurated the upgradation of the Poultry and Hatchery Unit under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, with an outlay of ₹3.88 crore, to enhance productivity and farmers’ income.
Further, the CM laid the foundation stone for eight new classrooms at Government Higher Secondary School, Kathera, costing ₹1.768 crore, to improve educational infrastructure. The review covered sector-wise performance, with directions to ensure quality, timely implementation, and visible outcomes. He stressed the importance of proper drainage, slope protection on PMGSY and NABARD-funded roads, and directed departments to resolve bottlenecks swiftly.
In Samba district, Omar Abdullah held a detailed review to assess overall development and instructed officials to expedite ongoing projects and ensure benefits reach every household. Projects inaugurated included improvement and upgradation of link roads at Tara Resort and Chak Nazir under NABARD, totaling ₹533 lakh, and the foundation stone for a 100-meter span footbridge over River Basanter at Banab, estimated at ₹198.38 lakh. He emphasized promoting entrepreneurship under Mission YUVA, strengthening Self-Help Groups, and empowering youth and women for sustainable growth.
Both meetings witnessed active participation from Deputy Chief Ministers, Ministers, MLAs, senior officers, and public representatives. The Chief Minister urged departments to maintain high standards, remove delays, and ensure quality asset creation. He also underscored the need for focused water conservation efforts, improved public service delivery, and resolving issues related to health, education, drinking water, road connectivity, and employment.
He praised the districts’ resilience during recent crises and directed officials to intensify efforts for timely project execution, including ongoing SASCI initiatives. The Chief Minister assured that all genuine demands and public grievances would be addressed systematically, aiming for inclusive development and improved livelihood opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir.