Minister for Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, Abdul Gani Kohli on Saturday said that the Government is committed to set up Milk Villages in every area of the State for which he said he has directed the Department to formulate a comprehensive plan so that funds can be arranged for the purpose.The Minister was speaking after inaugurating Milk Village at Argi in district Rajouri today. Member Parliament, Jugal Kishor Sharma was also present on the occasion.Under this ambitious project of Animal Husbandry Department, 50 identified beneficiaries of the village would be provided 100% subsidy to establish dairy farm units on modern lines.He said the aim of establishing Milk Villages is to bridge the demand-supply deficit of milk in the State in general and Rajouri district in particular. He further said that it will also provide an opportunity to Gujjars-the main milk producer’s group- to grow up economically and contribute to the State. The Minister said that the Centre Government has provided liberal fund allocation under various sectors which he said will help these innovative schemes to promote the livelihood of Tribes considerably. He said the Government is committed to upgrade the living standard of the people of the State especially weaker sections of the society. He said by establishing Milk Village at different places in the State, this move will not only develop the standard of life of the community but it will boost the economy and social status of Tribes as well.Referring to the developmental works under execution in Kalakote Constituency, the Minister said that construction of various developmental projects under different sectors are apace and on completion of these projects it will change the Scio-economic conditions of the people of the area.
During his tour to district Rajouri, several deputations met the Minister and apprised him about their individual and collective problems which include construction of protection bunds, early sanctioning of IAY cases, up-gradation of education and health institutions. The Minister gave them a patient hearing and assured them that their genuine demands will be resolved in a phased manner. In some, cases, Kohli gave on the spot directions to the concerned for immediate redressal.Director Animal Husbandry Jammu, K K Bhardwaj and senior officers were also present on the occasion.