Underscoring on the measures taken by the government to take development revolution to every nook and corner of the state, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand today said priority is being given to address infrastructure needs of border and far-off belts of the state and exemplary initiatives have been taken for all round development of these areas. He said better infrastructure is vital for holistic development of backward areas and goes a long way in socio-economic upliftment of the area. “Government is steadfast on its resolve for equitable development of all regions of the state and with active support from the central government major projects have been started to meet the present day infrastructure requirements,” he added. He was addressing a public meeting at Pargwal.
Underlining measures taken to address growing unemployment, the Deputy Chief Minister said flagship SKEWPY, UDAAN and HIMAYAT have been launched to encourage youth to look beyond the government sector for employment, adding that present time is era of entrepreneurship and by availing benefits extended under these schemes youth of the state can become role models for society by starting own ventures and giving employment to others also. He said to address the special needs of people living in backward and near the Actual Line of Control the government has approved special dispensation for employment of teachers on the pattern of ReT. This would not only address much needed staff requirement of the schools of these areas but would also absorb educated young force, he added.
Tara Chand said with transfer of functions of fourteen departments to the PRIs their direct involvement in the development has increased many folds and empowered pachayats would be a boost for over all development. PRI have to play a major role in making people aware of various schemes and programs launched by the government from time to time, he added. “Major awareness camps for Kissan Credit Cards, Labor welfare schemes and other welfare schemes have been organised in areas of the constituency and now it is duty of the Sarpanchs and Panchs to ensure that more and more people get themselves registered for availing benefits of these initiatives,” he added.
Stressing on women empowerment, the Deputy Chief Minister said that by occupying highest posts of President, Prime Minister and other higher chairs in government as well as private sector, women have proved their mettle. He said Mrs. Indira Gandhi by becoming first women Prime Minister and heading various international bodies have proved that women of our country have tremendous potential. “Now it is our turn to ensure cent percent coverage of women empowerment schemes launched by the government and PRIs have a greater role to ensure this coverage,” he added. Various officers from revenue, civil administration and engineers attended the meeting.