Jammu: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today said that the labourers are the backbone of Jammu & Kashmir’s economy and the government is fully committed to ensuring their dignity, safety and job security.
He made these remarks while addressing a one-day conference on “Empowered Labour Force: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities”, held at the Convention Centre, Jammu, an official press release informed.
Organised by the Department of Labour & Employment, the event aimed at strengthening the labour welfare systems, raising awareness on labour reforms and facilitating smooth implementation of the new labour codes across the Union Territory, the release said.
It said the Deputy CM said the government stands firmly with the labour force and values their crucial contribution towards economic growth.
Terming the recently introduced Jammu & Kashmir Shops and Establishments Bill, 2025, as a “historic reform”, he stated that the government will ensure workers’ dignity, safety, job security and transparent business practices in J&K. He highlighted the key decisions taken by the government, including permission for 24×7 business operations, enhanced safeguards for women and restoration of the annual Darbar Move, as major steps towards economic revitalisation.
Underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts for effective implementation of the New Labour Codes, he called upon all the stakeholders to work collectively for a modern, fair and progressive labour ecosystem in J&K.
During the event, the Deputy CM disbursed welfare cheques amounting Rs. 1,99,35,721 under various labour welfare acts, extending substantial financial support to the deserving beneficiaries. He also formally launched the Department’s IEC Compendium.
The event was attended by Labour Commissioner J&K, Charandeep Singh; Deputy Labour Commissioner, Jammu, Sukhpal Singh; senior departmental officers; representatives of trade unions; industry bodies; academicians; experts and beneficiaries.
The programme included a welcome address by the Deputy Labour Commissioner, context setting by the Labour Commissioner and remarks by Arun Gupta, President, Chamber of Commerce.
A short film on Labour department achievements was screened, followed by beneficiary interactions.
The conference featured two technical sessions and a panel discussion, reflecting the government’s vision of building a socially secure, empowered and future-ready labour force in Jammu & Kashmir.
Deputy CM reviews Rs 119 crore Pargwal bridge project in Akhnoor
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary inspected ongoing work on the Rs 119 crore Pargwal bridge project in the Akhnoor sector here on Sunday, urging for an accelerated pace to ensure its timely completion.
The 1,640-meter bridge over the Chenab River will significantly improve connectivity for over one lakh border residents in Pargwal, Jourian, Khour Palanwalla and nearby areas, an official said.
The project will also enhance links between the Chamb and Akhnoor constituencies, facilitating easier access to markets, healthcare and education for local communities, he added.
During the review, Choudhary emphasised the need to maintain high-quality standards to ensure durable flood protection along the bunds on both sides of the bridge.
He directed the executing agency to mobilise additional resources and work in double shifts to meet the March-April 2026 deadline.
“No delays shall be tolerated on this vital bridge project,” he said, while asserting that the government is keenly watching the completion of all road and bridge projects.
The deputy chief minister also stressed the fast execution of the 3.6 km approach road across Sajwal (Pargwal–Indri Pattan) in Jourian.
He assured that the necessary patchwork on the road leading to Pargwal will be completed before its widening by the Border Roads Organisation.
Of the total Rs 119 crore allocated, Rs 80 crore has already been released to the concerned agency to ensure unhindered and faster execution, Choudhary said.
