Says, Daily wagers’ regularisation, women empowerment top government agenda; Hopeful of more central funds despite UT status; Handicrafts, water supply and waste management key focus areas; People friendly budget expected, south Kashmir to get new waste plant; smart city projects, clean drinking water and infrastructure revamp underway in J&K
Fazil Mir
Srinagar, Jan 26 (KNC): Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Monday expressed confidence that the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir will be restored in the near future, as promised by the Prime Minister.
Addressing a gathering on occcasion of Republic Day at Bakshi Stadium here, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, the Deputy CM said, “The Prime Minister has assured restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. I am hopeful that J&K will soon regain its statehood, as envisioned by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah.”
Highlighting development initiatives, Choudhary said that under the Smart City project, “200 new red buses have been introduced to improve public transport facilities.”
He said the government remains committed to regularising daily wagers, adding, “We have promised that daily wagers will be given permanent status, and the government stands by this commitment.”
The Deputy CM further said that the Chief Minister-led government is actively embracing digital transformation in Jammu and Kashmir. “Our government is adopting a digital revolution to ensure transparency and efficient governance,” he said.
On infrastructure development, Choudhary said, “Our focus is on strengthening road connectivity. Several bridges, which remained incomplete for decades, have now been completed.”
Referring to the current Union Territory status, he said, “After being downgraded from a state to a UT, we are not receiving funds at the level we used to earlier. However, considering the unique challenges of Jammu and Kashmir, we are hopeful that the Centre will release additional funds.”
The Deputy CM described traditional crafts as the backbone of the local economy, saying, “Basoli paintings, Kani shawls and handicrafts are our heritage. Our artisans are playing a crucial role in reviving and preserving this legacy.”
He said steps are being taken to ensure clean drinking water by installing special machinery across regions. He also announced that “a new waste management plant is being set up in South Kashmir to address waste-related challenges in rural areas.”
Expressing optimism about the upcoming budget, Choudhary said, “The people should be hopeful, as the coming budget will be people-friendly.”
He also reiterated the government’s commitment towards women empowerment.
The speech concluded with the Deputy Chief Minister raising slogans of “Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.” (KNC)
