Architect of Transformation and Progress
As the Prime Minister arrives today on 7th March, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the transformative journey of the region under his visionary leadership. Prime Minister Modi's steadfast commitment to the development and welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir has ushered in an era of unparalleled progress and prosperity across various sectors.
Under PM Narender Modi's leadership, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed remarkable strides in social welfare and good governance. The successful implementation of flagship schemes like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, PM Ujjwala Yojana, and PM Awas Yojana has ensured access to basic amenities and housing for all sections of society. The region has achieved 100% saturation in 17 beneficiary-centric schemes with 12.53 lakh LPG connections under PM Ujjwala Yojana and 3.84 lakh houses sanctioned under PM Awas Yojana.
The introduction of the AB-PMJAY-SEHAT scheme has revolutionized healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir, providing free health insurance coverage to millions of residents. Notable reductions in infant mortality rates and improvements in health indices underscore the government's commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for all. The scheme has enabled poor patients to seek treatment not only in government hospitals but also in private hospitals, marking a significant shift in access to healthcare.
PM Narender Modi's government has placed a special emphasis on empowering women and tribal communities in Jammu and Kashmir. Initiatives like the Violence Free Home project and the reservation of seats for women in non-gazetted ranks in the police force demonstrate a concerted effort towards gender equality and tribal welfare. The region has seen a 15% horizontal reservation for women in non-gazetted ranks in J&K police services with 2,014 new posts created for women.
Youth empowerment has been a cornerstone of PM Narender Modi's agenda for Jammu and Kashmir. The establishment of educational institutions, skill development initiatives and sports infrastructure projects has opened up new avenues of growth and opportunity for the youth, paving the way for a brighter future. The recent Khelo India event witnessed the participation of hundreds of national players, highlighting the region's potential in sports.
The government's focus on accelerating infrastructure development and promoting employment generation has been instrumental in driving economic growth in the region. From electrification projects to the completion of iconic infrastructure projects like the Chenab rail Bridge, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing unprecedented development on multiple fronts. The region has achieved 13.54 lakh tap water connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with 32 out of 53 projects under the PM's Development Package completed.
Digital transformation initiatives and policy reforms aimed at promoting industrial development have positioned Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for innovation and investment. The surge in handloom and handicraft exports and the implementation of schemes like PM KISAN underscore the government's commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and artisans. Handloom and handicraft exports doubled from Rs. 563 Crore in 2021-22 to Rs. 1116.37 Crore in 2022-23.
The historic decision to provide free food grains to approximately 81.35 crore beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for a five-year period starting from 1st January 2024, reflects the dedication and commitment of the Hon. Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, towards strengthening food and nutrition security in the country. This initiative marks a significant milestone in social welfare, with an estimated cost of Rs. 11.80 lakh crore, placing PMGKAY among the world's largest schemes aimed at ensuring food and nutrition security for a vast population. This decision underscores the Prime Minister's unwavering commitment to efficient and targeted welfare, addressing the basic food and nutrition needs of the populace during the Amrit Kaal and aligning with the vision of building an aspirational and developed India. The provision of free food grains including rice, wheat, and coarse grains/millets under PMGKAY for five years will not only strengthen food security but also alleviate financial hardships for the poor and vulnerable sections across the nation.
The surge in tourist arrivals in Jammu and Kashmir is a testament to the region's growing appeal as a premier tourist destination. With a focus on infrastructure development and the promotion of homestays, the government is unlocking the tourism potential of the region, thereby creating new opportunities for economic growth and employment. Sachin Tendulkar's recent visit to Kashmir served as a testament to the region's potential as a tourism hotspot. With the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kashmir, we can expect an even greater boost to tourism. His presence will not only highlight the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region but also demonstrate the government's commitment to promoting tourism and ensuring the prosperity of the local communities.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's is visiting to Kashmir on 7th March, it is an opportune moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for his unwavering dedication and leadership in steering the region towards a path of progress and prosperity. Under his guidance, Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as a beacon of hope and opportunity, inspiring generations to dream big and achieve their aspirations. Prime Minister Modi's commitment to the region has not only brought tangible development but also instilled a sense of pride and optimism among the people. His visionary approach has transformed challenges into opportunities, making Jammu and Kashmir a model of development for the entire nation to emulate.
By Inam Un Nabi
