Khour, June 7 (JKNS): Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of border residents and transparent governance, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, IT, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma on Sunday said that border communities will remain at the centre of the government’s development agenda, while warning officials that negligence, bureaucratic delays and lack of accountability in public service delivery will not be tolerated.
As per news agency JKNS, Sharma reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment towards the welfare of border residents, accelerated infrastructure development, employment generation and transparent governance
The minister was addressing a large public gathering at the historic Royal Palace, Khour.
The Minister’s visit witnessed enthusiastic public participation, with several delegations, social organizations, youth groups and local representatives meeting him and extending their support to the government’s developmental vision. The delegations projected a wide range of public issues and developmental demands concerning border villages, infrastructure, employment opportunities, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, road connectivity and public welfare schemes.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that the government remains fully sensitive to the challenges faced by people residing in border areas and is committed to ensuring their safety, security and socio-economic upliftment. He emphasized that the concerns of border residents would continue to receive priority attention and assured that all genuine issues projected by the people would be vigorously pursued before the concerned authorities.
The Minister particularly highlighted the issue of compensation for border residents who have suffered losses due to shelling and conflict-related incidents. He said that adequate and timely compensation for affected families remains a matter of utmost importance and reiterated that the government would continue to advocate for comprehensive relief measures to ensure that no affected family is left unattended.
Recalling the government’s proactive response during recent hostilities along the Line of Control and border areas, Satish Sharma said that the administration successfully undertook one of the largest humanitarian evacuation efforts in the region. He noted that nearly 70,000 people were safely shifted from vulnerable locations to safer places through coordinated efforts of various departments, with the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation playing a pivotal role by deploying its fleet for emergency transportation.
“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our foremost priority. The coordinated evacuation and relief operations demonstrated the government’s preparedness and commitment towards protecting human lives during difficult circumstances,” he said.
On the occasion, the Minister handed over appointment orders to newly selected Anganwadi Workers and congratulated them on joining the public service system. He described the Anganwadi network as one of the most important pillars of grassroots welfare delivery and said that Anganwadi Workers play a vital role in strengthening maternal and child health, nutritional support, early childhood education and community outreach.
Encouraging the newly appointed workers to perform their duties with sincerity and dedication, he said that their services would contribute significantly towards building a healthier and stronger society.
Reviewing the functioning of various departments, Satish Sharma directed officers to remain accessible to the public and ensure timely redressal of grievances. He stressed that governance must be people-centric and responsive, adding that public confidence can only be strengthened through efficient service delivery and accountability.
The Minister issued strict instructions to departmental officers to expedite pending works, maintain transparency in official functioning and ensure that government schemes reach deserving beneficiaries without delay. He warned that negligence, bureaucratic delays and lack of accountability would not be tolerated and that strict action would be initiated wherever public interest is compromised.
Highlighting the developmental roadmap for the region, Satish Sharma informed the gathering that several important projects are currently in the pipeline for Khour and adjoining areas. These initiatives, he said, are aimed at improving road connectivity, strengthening public infrastructure, enhancing digital services, expanding educational and sports facilities, and creating new opportunities for youth engagement and employment.
The Minister further emphasized that technology-driven governance and scientific planning are playing an increasingly important role in accelerating development and improving public service delivery. He reiterated his commitment to leveraging innovation and modern administrative practices to ensure efficient implementation of government programmes.
Satish Sharma said that the government’s vision is centred on inclusive growth, balanced regional development and the empowerment of every section of society. He stressed that border and rural areas must receive equal opportunities and attention in the development process and assured the people that sustained efforts would continue to bridge developmental gaps and improve living standards.
Calling upon citizens to actively participate in the developmental journey of Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister said that meaningful progress can only be achieved through cooperation between the government and the people. He urged the public to continue engaging constructively with the administration and contribute towards building a prosperous, progressive and self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir.
A large number of local residents, public representatives, community leaders, youth, women, social activists and officers from various departments were present on the occasion. (JKNS)
