Jammu: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Sunday lauded the role the Indian Army in keeping the morale of public high at a meeting conducted to review the security arrangements in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking on security concerns, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that appropriate security responses will be ensured.
“We will address all concerns and constraints to ensure peace and safety. Miscreants will be dealt with firmly,” he added.
Dr Jitendra Singh also disclosed that he had also been briefed and had a detailed meeting with Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, who is to take over as GoC Northern Command Udhampur from May 1.
He appreciated the role of the Indian Army in keeping the morale of the general public high through their strategic presence at sensitive points.
He also extended good wishes to Gen Pratik Sharma who is taking over command at a time when J&K is in focus.
Dr. Singh also expressed appreciation to the district administration, for their ongoing efforts in maintaining law and order and supporting developmental initiatives.
Detailed discussion about hot spots, vulnerability and strategies to plug the same were discussed in length and. breath.
Directions were issued to work in sync and coordination with all security agencies.
However, later Dr Singh speaking to the media, said that such details can’t be shared in public.
He said, there are certain inputs which are available only with the concerned security agencies and they act accordingly without speaking about it openly but the positive outcomes become visible to public after the success of their action, he said.
Nevertheless, the Minister said, the security forces had spelt out a plan to keep the confidence of the general public high and not let them feel insecure by any means.
Meanwhile, Dr Singh also held a comprehensive interaction with public representatives and local citizens, and offered reassurance amid security concerns in a meeting at Udhampur.
While reassuring the citizens about reinforcement in security deployment, Dr. Singh also emphasized the government’s initiatives for the all-round development of the district.
He highlighted several key infrastructure and public welfare projects in the region which are being expedited because of their security relevance as well.
These, the Minister said, include the widening of the Dhar Road for smooth movement of security forces and the much-anticipated Ujh Multipurpose Project which is also proved vulnerable for cross border infiltrations and is being pursued by both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
He expressed optimism about positive progress on the project.
Dr Singh also revealed that Udhampur’s long-pending dream of an operational airport is close to reality, a development expected to significantly boost local connectivity both for civilians as well as the Army which has its Northern headquarters over here and also the economic prospects.
Addressing the needs of youth, the Minister announced that army recruitment drives have resumed, and discussions have already been held with the incoming General Officer Commanding (GOC), Lt Gen Prateek Sharma, who will soon assume charge.
He further underscored Udhampur’s growing importance in the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra, particularly as train services will directly connect pilgrims to the area.
UNI
