Minister for Labour, Planning and Development Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today said that several initiatives have been taken for welfare and economic emancipation of labour force, which constitute important segment of population in Jammu and Kashmir.Speaking at a function held at Jaswan in Marh Block, held in connection with disbursement of cheques among the kith and kin of labourers who expired during the course of their work, the Minister called for close interaction between the labour force and the department charged with the responsibility of ensuring their welfare for mitigating their sufferings.The Minister presented 53 cheques amounting to Rs 12 lakhs among the dependents of deceased labourers, who are registered with the department, for education of their children. They were covered under J&K Building and other Constructions Work Welfare Board.Mr Sadhotra also dwelt upon the developmental initiative taken in the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir and said while thrust is being laid on ensuring infrastructural development in key sectors like roads and building, health, education, power and drinking water sectors, the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is also prioritizing employment generation schemes.
The Minister said a strong edifice of infrastructure has been created during the past five years and efforts are underway to complete various ongoing projects. The development plank of the government has been to complete various projects and implement welfare schemes in a time bound manner so that the benefits accrue to the targeted segments of society faster.Mr Sadhotra sought the cooperation of the people in the development of the state and referred to the mechanism of Panchayats, saying these are a vibrant and instrumental mode at the grass roots level to involve rural inhabitants in decision making.On the occasion, the people apprised the Minister of various problems related to development and ensuring various facilities. He assured them that these will be examined for appropriate and earnest redressal.Senior officers of the Labour Department were present at the function.