Pulwama: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Tuesday announced a series of development measures for tribal areas in Pulwama, including the development of Sangerwani as a Tribal Tourism Village and the upgradation of drinking water infrastructure in Rajpora.
Addressing a gathering of tribal community members in Pulwama, Rana said Sangerwani would be developed as a Tribal Tourism Village to promote local culture, livelihoods and eco-tourism potential. He also announced that the Sangerwani tribal settlement would be developed as a Forest Village under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
The minister said a Detailed Project Report (DPR) worth Rs 1 crore has been approved for soil conservation works in the area. He added that the proposed interventions would help address soil erosion and protect agricultural land.
Rana also announced the sanctioning of Rs 2.75 crore for the improvement and revamping of 14 filtration plants in the Rajpora constituency. He said the government was prioritising the strengthening of drinking water infrastructure, particularly in remote tribal habitations.
The minister said the government was working to improve road connectivity, electricity supply, healthcare and education facilities in tribal areas. He said efforts were underway to modernise tribal schools, expand seasonal educational camps and strengthen scholarship support for tribal students.
Speaking on political issues, Rana criticised the Union Government over the delay in the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. He alleged that repeated assurances on the issue had not translated into concrete action and claimed that the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir had not been adequately addressed.
Rana said the Omar Abdullah-led government was committed to inclusive development and the welfare of tribal communities through improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, livelihoods and the protection of community and forest rights.
He also said the government would continue to focus on development initiatives aimed at improving living conditions and expanding opportunities for tribal communities across Jammu and Kashmir.
