KULGAM: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo on Friday laid foundation stones for several development projects in Kulgam district and inaugurated key public infrastructure, reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive and accelerated growth.
The minister was accompanied by M. Y. Tarigami, senior district officers and local residents.
As part of the government’s rural development push, Sakeena Itoo laid the foundation stone for a ‘Viksit Village’ project at Yarikah-A in DH Pora.
Addressing locals, she said the initiative would improve rural infrastructure and basic amenities, transforming the village into a self-reliant and sustainable settlement.
She said the government was focusing on rural transformation through investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare and social welfare, describing the project as part of a grassroots-oriented development strategy.
The minister also laid the foundation stone for the construction and upgradation of the Chiripora–Trengabal road under the Public Works (R&B) Department at an estimated cost of Rs 2 crore.
She said the road project would improve accessibility, reduce travel time and create better opportunities for economic growth and service delivery in the area.
Highlighting the initiatives of the government led by Omar Abdullah, the minister said special emphasis was being laid on improving connectivity, expanding educational infrastructure, strengthening healthcare facilities and increasing social security coverage in rural and peripheral areas.
Later, Sakeena Itoo inaugurated a 100-bedded girls’ hostel under the KGBV Type-IV scheme in Kulgam.
She said the hostel would help girls from far-flung and disadvantaged areas continue their education by reducing dropout rates and encouraging higher enrolment in secondary and higher secondary classes.
The minister directed the concerned authorities to ensure modern amenities, quality services and a safe environment for students residing in the hostel.
She also inaugurated an Ayush dispensary at Wovri Khull and the building of a higher secondary school at Khull DH Pora.
Reaffirming the government’s long-term vision, the minister said sustained efforts were being made to build robust infrastructure, promote gender equity in education and create livelihood opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir.
She said the administration remained committed to fast-tracking development works while ensuring transparency and accountability.
Later, the minister visited Ardpora Khull and witnessed the final of the Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo Memorial Cricket Tournament.
Interacting with the players, Sakeena Itoo stressed the importance of sports in promoting discipline, teamwork and a healthy lifestyle among youth. She assured continued government support for sports infrastructure and youth engagement activities in the district.
The minister also distributed trophies among the winning and runner-up teams and presented medals to other top performers in the tournament.
