Satish Sharma Assures Priority Support for Border Residents, Hands Over Anganwadi Appointment Orders in Khour
Khour, June 7: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma on Sunday reiterated the government's commitment to the welfare of border residents, accelerated development, employment generation and transparent governance while addressing a public gathering at the historic Royal Palace in Khour.
The visit witnessed significant public participation, with delegations, social organisations, youth groups and local representatives raising issues related to border villages, infrastructure, healthcare, education, road connectivity, employment opportunities and public welfare schemes.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the government remains sensitive to the challenges faced by people living in border areas and is committed to ensuring their safety, security and socio-economic development. He assured the public that genuine concerns projected by residents would be taken up with the concerned authorities for timely resolution.
Highlighting the issue of compensation for families affected by shelling and conflict-related incidents, Sharma said adequate and timely relief for affected residents remains a priority. He reiterated the government's commitment to pursuing comprehensive compensation and assistance measures for all eligible families.
Referring to recent hostilities along the Line of Control and border regions, the Minister said the administration successfully carried out one of the largest humanitarian evacuation operations in the area, shifting nearly 70,000 people from vulnerable locations to safer places through coordinated efforts of various departments. He noted that the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation played a key role in the operation by deploying its fleet for emergency transportation.
“The safety and well-being of citizens remain the government's foremost priority,” Sharma said, adding that the evacuation and relief efforts reflected the administration’s preparedness and commitment to protecting lives during emergencies.
On the occasion, the Minister distributed appointment orders among newly selected Anganwadi Workers and congratulated them on joining public service. He described the Anganwadi network as a vital component of grassroots welfare delivery, contributing significantly to maternal and child health, nutrition, early childhood education and community outreach.
He urged the newly appointed workers to discharge their responsibilities with dedication and sincerity, stating that their contribution would strengthen social welfare initiatives and community development.
Reviewing the functioning of various departments, Sharma directed officers to remain accessible to the public and ensure prompt redressal of grievances. He stressed the need for people-centric governance, efficient service delivery and greater accountability in public administration.
The Minister also instructed departmental officers to expedite pending works, maintain transparency and ensure that government welfare schemes reach deserving beneficiaries without delay. He warned that negligence, administrative delays and lack of accountability would not be tolerated.
Outlining the development roadmap for Khour and adjoining areas, Sharma said several projects are in the pipeline to improve road connectivity, strengthen public infrastructure, expand digital services, enhance educational and sports facilities, and create employment opportunities for youth.
He further emphasized the role of technology-driven governance and scientific planning in accelerating development and improving public service delivery, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring effective implementation of government programmes.
Sharma said the government's vision is based on inclusive growth, balanced regional development and empowerment of all sections of society. He stressed that border and rural areas must receive equal attention in the development process and assured residents that sustained efforts would continue to bridge developmental gaps and improve living standards.
Calling for active public participation in the development process, the Minister said meaningful progress can only be achieved through cooperation between the government and the people. He urged citizens to continue engaging constructively with the administration to help build a prosperous, progressive and self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir.
A large number of local residents, elected representatives, community leaders, youth, women, social activists and officers from various departments attended the programme. ANB
