Jammu July 17 (JKNS): Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Friday inaugurated and laid foundation stones for a series of landmark developmental projects across the Chhamb Constituency, reaffirming the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s unwavering commitment to accelerating infrastructure development, strengthening public service delivery, and ensuring equitable growth across rural and border areas.
The extensive programme witnessed the inauguration and foundation stone laying of projects collectively valued at over ₹10 crore, encompassing roads, bridges, administrative infrastructure, sports facilities, healthcare, and veterinary services. The initiatives are expected to significantly enhance connectivity, improve access to essential public services, strengthen rural infrastructure, and create new opportunities for socio-economic development.
At the outset, the Minister inaugurated the Thandi Choi–Sainth Road, developed at a cost of ₹1.50 crore. Describing road connectivity as the backbone of economic growth, Satish Sharma said that well-developed road infrastructure not only shortens travel time but also facilitates trade, education, healthcare access, and overall regional development.
“The Government is committed to ensuring that even the remotest villages are connected with quality infrastructure. Better roads translate into better opportunities, improved livelihoods, and enhanced quality of life for our people,” he remarked.
At Kharah Balli, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the new Tehsil Office Building, to be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹76.74 lakh. He said the modern administrative complex will bring government services closer to the people, improve administrative efficiency, and provide a more citizen-friendly environment for the delivery of public services.
On the occasion, Satish Sharma also inaugurated the Bridge at Kharah, constructed at a cost of ₹3.45 crore. The bridge is expected to provide reliable all-weather connectivity to several adjoining villages, facilitating easier movement of residents, students, farmers, and emergency services.
Continuing the developmental programme, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the Chaprial–Bardoh Road, a major connectivity project worth ₹2.50 crore. He said the project would improve transportation facilities, strengthen rural connectivity, and provide a much-needed boost to agriculture, trade, tourism, and other economic activities in the area.
Recognising the pivotal role of sports in youth empowerment and nation-building, Satish Sharma inaugurated the newly constructed Volleyball Court at Pallanwala, built at a cost of ₹20.99 lakh. The Minister said the Government is committed to creating modern sports infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir to provide young athletes with quality facilities and encourage greater participation in sports.
“Our youth possess immense talent. It is our responsibility to provide them with the best possible infrastructure and opportunities so they can excel at the national and international levels. Sports not only produce champions but also promote discipline, confidence, fitness, and social harmony,” he said.
The Minister also distributed medical equipment aimed at strengthening healthcare facilities in the area and improving the quality of healthcare services available to the local population. He said the Government continues to invest in health infrastructure to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for every citizen.
Later, Satish Sharma laid the foundation stone for the Veterinary Hospital at Khour, a project estimated to cost ₹2.07 crore. He observed that livestock forms the backbone of the rural economy in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir, and strengthening veterinary infrastructure would directly benefit farmers by improving animal healthcare, productivity, and income generation.
Addressing public gatherings during the programme, the Minister said that the Omar Abdullah-led Government is committed to delivering transparent, accountable, and development-oriented governance, with special emphasis on balanced regional development and the welfare of every section of society.
He said the Government is working tirelessly to ensure that developmental benefits reach every village, every household, and every citizen through sustained investment in infrastructure and public welfare.
“Development is meaningful only when its benefits reach the common people. Every project that we have inaugurated or launched today has been carefully planned to address the needs of the local population and improve their quality of life. Our Government remains committed to creating modern infrastructure, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that every region progresses on the path of inclusive and sustainable development,” the Minister said.
Satish Sharma also interacted with local residents, public representatives, youth, and members of various community organisations, patiently listening to their concerns and developmental aspirations. He assured them that all genuine issues raised during the interaction would be examined on priority and that the Government would continue to work in close coordination with the local administration to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects and the execution of new developmental initiatives.
The Minister reiterated that infrastructure development, youth empowerment, improved governance, and enhanced public services remain among the Government’s highest priorities and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Chhamb continues to witness sustained developmental progress in the years ahead.
Senior officers from the district administration, engineers from executing agencies, local public representatives, and a large number of residents were present during the programme. (JKNS)
