Kathua : The 76th Republic Day was celebrated with patriotic fervor and grandeur at the Sports Stadium Kathua, where the Minister for FCS&CA Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology, Science and Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, unfurled the National Flag.
The Minister took salute at an impressive march past by the contingents of Police, Paramilitary Forces, Forest Protection Force, college and school students besides police and school bands.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister extended heartfelt Republic Day greetings to the people and emphasised the importance of this day as celebration of India’s democratic values and the sacrifices made by the nation’s freedom fighters. ”It was on this day in 1950 that our nation embarked on a journey to create a society based on justice, fraternity and equality. This seven-decade-long journey of development is a testament to our inclusive ideology, national unity, hard work and dynamism.” he quoted.
Today, a confident India stands as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, the Minister added.
While remembering the valour of General Zorawar Singh, Brigadier Rajinder Singh and other brave hearts, the Minister paid homage to the soldiers and police personnel who have sacrificed their lives for the nation’s security.
The Minister said “Our Constitution is not just a document; it is a guiding light that upholds the values of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity. It empowers us to embrace diversity and unite as a nation despite differences in culture, language and beliefs”.
Highlighting the government’s achievements and developmental vision, Satish Sharma spoke about initiatives to uplift the socio-economic status of citizens, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards promoting inclusive growth, good governance and opportunities for all, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah.
Satish Sharma highlighted several key initiatives aimed at transforming various sectors and promoting inclusive development in Jammu and Kashmir. In the area of agriculture, he emphasized the implementation of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) with an allocation of ₹5,000 crore over five years. “This initiative focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity and improving rural livelihoods which in turn will revolutionize the agricultural landscape and unlock the region’s immense potential.” he added.
Referring to the recently taken initiatives to revamp Public Distribution System (PDS), the Minister said that “ approximately 24.79 lakh families and 98.42 lakh beneficiaries have been covered in Jammu and Kashmir. The department has also issued orders to include children born between 2011 and 2016, as well as any eligible but excluded residents, under the relevant PDS categories to ensure the food needs of the general public are adequately met”
”The Transport Department has introduced new bus services in rural areas to provide affordable and safe transportation and is expanding services to religious destinations like Mata Vaishno Devi and Shahdara Shrief”, maintained the Minister.
He said that the Rural Development Department is focusing on empowering Panchayati Raj institutions and improving rural infrastructure. Under PMAY 2.0, the department is ensuring housing for all eligible left out beneficiaries.
“Our focus is on urban modernization through affordable housing for economically weaker sections, improved sanitation and waste management, decongesting cities and promoting sustainable, eco-friendly development to uplift the quality of life for everyone”, stated the Minister.
Terming Tourism and infrastructure development as key focus areas of the government, the Minister emphasized the efforts are being made to promote year-round tourism, with a special focus on adventure, cultural and eco-tourism.
“Our vision emphasizes universal access to quality education by updating school curricula, equipping teachers with advanced training, and incorporating technology-enabled learning tools, with a strong focus on reducing dropout rates and ensuring inclusive education for underprivileged children.” said the Minister.
Regarding youth employment, the Minister mentioned about flagship initiative, Project YUVA, which aims to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a thriving hub of enterprises and holistic employment by fostering an entrepreneurial culture. Through this initiative, the government plans to create 1.37 lakh enterprises, providing employment opportunities for 4.25 lakh youths in the next five years, backed by a budget of ₹1,830 crores and an influx of over ₹5,000 crores from financial institutions, he added.
To promote industrial growth and IT development, the government is focusing on creating an investor-friendly environment in Jammu and Kashmir, which included development of industrial estates, supporting startups and promoting small-scale industries. In parallel, efforts to digitize government services, enhance e-governance, and foster innovation in the IT sector will help drive economic growth and create job opportunities.
Outlining the steps taken by the government, the Minister said “The government aims to develop sports infrastructure, organize talent scouting programs and provide training to athletes. The sports department seeks to promote a culture of physical fitness and health while encouraging young individuals to pursue careers in sports. Notable events, such as the recently held Legends Cricket League and the upcoming 5th edition of Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg, are being organized. These not only provide opportunities for athletes but also boost tourism in the region”.
The Minister said the Kathua district Administration has been tirelessly working to achieve set goals and provide the best services to the general public.
While concluding his speech, Satish Sharma said “let us pledge to uphold the dignity of our nation, work hard in our respective fields and make India a beacon of hope and inspiration for the world.”
On the occasion, scintillating cultural performances including patriotic songs and dances were presented by schoolchildren.
Later, Satish Sharma felicitated the winners of March Past contingents, Cultural presentations besides facilitating outstanding performers in varied fields.
MLA Kathua, Dr Bharat Bhushan; MLA Barnoti, Rajeev Jasrotia; MLA Hiranagar, Vijay Sharma; DDC Chairman, Col (Retd) Mahan Singh; Vice Chairman DDC, Raghunandan Singh; Ex MP Ch Lal Singh; DC Kathua, Dr Rakesh Minhas; SSP, Shobhit Saxena; ADC Ranjit Singh; ACR, Vishav Pratap Singh; CPO, Ranjit Thakur and other district and sectoral officers were also present.
