The District Administration Kathua, headed by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas, convened a pre-budget consultation meeting today with the Members of Legislative Assembly representing different assembly constituencies of the district.
The meeting was held in the VC Room of the DC Office Complex, with MLAs participating both in person and virtually. Present at the meeting were MLA Kathua Dr. Bharat Bhushan, MLA Jasrota Rajiv Jasrotia, MLA Hiranagar Vijay Sharma, and MLA Billawar Satish Sharma, while MLA Bani Rameshwar Singh joined virtually.
During the consultation, the MLAs presented their developmental priorities. The MLA Kathua emphasized the need for an indoor stadium and installation of hand pumps to augment water availability, while MLA Jasrota advocated for the establishment of a Degree College in his constituency.
MLA Hiranagar pushed for four-laning of Dhar Road, and MLA Billawar called for the construction of a permanent building for the Government Degree College along with improved facilities for Yatris.
MLA Bani raised demands for a bridge over Bhini Nallah, better road and mobile connectivity, replacement of old electricity poles, and strengthening of medical staff. MLA Hiranagar Vijay Kumar sought revamping PHC Hiranagar and Mini Sectt. Complex for Hiranagar sub division etc.
DDC Chairman Mahan Singh also highlighted the need to extend road connectivity in uncovered areas. Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas emphasized the administration’s commitment to holistic development, announcing plans to revamp the iconic Kathua canal into a modern waterfront.
The proposed Kathua Waterfront Project aims to enhance the canal’s ecological and aesthetic appeal while boosting local tourism and recreation. Besides, the administration intends to develop two Anganwadi centers as model educational facilities in each Assembly constituency, ensuring quality early childhood education and care.
Later, the DC, along with the elected MLAs, apprised the Chief Minister about the focused areas for the overall development of their respective constituencies. The deliberations mark a crucial step towards formulating a budget that addresses the core needs of Kathua district while fostering sustainable growth and development.