DODA: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, MoS PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh, today said the prestigious Chhatergala tunnel connecting Doda and Bhaderwah with Lakhanpur via Basohli-Bani will be a game changer in providing all weather connectivity to the region while boosting employment opportunities for the local youth.
The Union Minister was speaking during the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee Meeting (DISHA) held here today. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of various centrally sponsored schemes and key infrastructure projects in the district.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the region which had remained untouched by development for the past many decades is now connected by a wide web of highways, improving connectivity in far-flung areas of Doda. He called for the early completion of important projects, including the Khellani tunnel and Goha-Marmat Highway to further boost connectivity in the Chenab Valley region. He asked the concerned authorities to accelerate the execution of these projects for timely completion, without lapsing any funds.
The Union Minister instructed the officials to prioritize public participation in developmental initiatives in line with the spirit of Jan Bhagidari for their effective implementation.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment towards ensuring the district’s holistic development, the Union Minister stressed the importance of implementing local benefit schemes, such as Ayushman Bharat and drug-free initiatives. He called for conductive regular awareness campaigns to educate the public. He also encouraged the officials to organize skill development programs to create job opportunities for unemployed youth besides intensifying sports activities in the district.
Dr Jitendra Singh proposed organizing another lavender festival in the district next year to promote its cultivation besides highlighting the tourism potential of picturesque Bhaderwah, which has gained wide recognition as a prominent tourist destination. He also called for organising workshops to enhance innovation strategies and improve the district’s agricultural practices.
During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner, Harvinder Singh, provided a comprehensive overview of the developmental activities including the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), NABARD projects and the PMGSY scheme. The meeting also addressed compensation issues for road construction under PMGSY and discussed challenges related to forest clearances for ongoing projects.
Present in the meeting were MLA, Doda West, Shakti Raj Parihar, MLA, Bhaderwah, Dalip Parihar, DDC, Chairman, Dhananter Singh Kotwal, Deputy Commissioner, Harvinder Singh, SSP, Sandeep Kumar Mehta and senior officials from several departments of the district administration.
