JK needs major interventions in socio-economic diversification, political transparency: Dr Haseeb Drabu

Drabu unfurls tricolour at Budgam

5 Dariya News (Rouf Pampori)

Budgam 15-Aug-2015

The 69th Independence Day was celebrated in traditional fervour and enthusiasm at Budgam today. The main function was organized at Sports Stadium Budgam where  Minister for Finance, Dr Haseeb Drabu unfurled the tricolour and took salute of the march past which was presented by JIKP, JKAP, CRPF, NCC, 13 contingents of students from various educational institutions besides band contingent of 53 RR.The Minister was presented guard of honour and also inspected march past in a especially decorated vehicle accompanied by SSP Budgam, Mr. Fayaz Ahmed Lone. 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Drabu enumerated various initiatives the present coalition government has undertaken under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. He said J&K needs some major changes particularly in socio-economic diversification, political transparency, change in mindset of younger generation and change in uplift of society. “This will materialize only when we are committed to give equal chances to all regions of the state to have equitable development, empowerment and economic prosperity,” he said and added that the Government is committed to protect the distinct identity of the State.

The Minister said when the present coalition government assumed office in March 2015 the state’s financial position was in a precarious state with around Rs 90000 crore liabilities from the previous regime. “The state treasuries were not in a position to negotiate financial expenses,” he said and added that the state needs reform and changes on many fronts to improve the developmental scenario.“The devastating floods of September 2014 annihilated our economy and infrastructure and led to a developmental vacuum,” he said and added that the rehabilitation and the reconstruction process would be taken to the logical conclusion. He said a comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction plan would be announced soon for flood affected and its focus will be on relief, rehabilitation and livelihood.

Referring to unemployment, the Minister said the Government is going to fill up 10000 vacancies in next 4 months and for this purpose recruiting agencies have already been directed to expedite the process. “However, the unemployment can’t be tackled only by providing government jobs and other means shall have to be explored to create opportunities in various sectors outside the government,” he said.He said our government has initiated many programmes where in all the district shall be provided sufficient funds under district plan to develop infrastructure and expand economy. He said for this purpose Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has enhanced district plans of all districts to a huge extent. “If we use these funds judiciously more and more employment opportunities can be created,” he said and impressed upon all concerned agencies to create a system of honesty and also bring transparency in fund spending.During the 2-hour celebration programme various cultural programmes were presented.DC Budgam, Mr Altaf Ahmad besides other dignitaries were present on the occasion.