Satish Sharma Assures Swift Redressal of Public Grievances, Calls for United Fight Against Drug Abuse During Handwara Visit
Handwara, June 19: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma on Friday visited Handwara, where he chaired a public interaction programme aimed at strengthening grassroots governance, addressing public concerns and promoting direct engagement between the government and citizens.
Rajya Sabha Member Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan accompanied the Minister during the visit.
The programme witnessed participation from residents, elected representatives, youth, civil society members, trade bodies and other local stakeholders, who projected a range of developmental demands and issues related to public services.
Among the key issues raised were the installation of solar lighting at the Higher Secondary School (HSS) Handwara playground, expansion of public transport through additional bus services, improvement of road connectivity, strengthening of civic infrastructure, development of sports facilities and enhancement of other essential public amenities.
Giving a patient hearing to the deputations, Satish Sharma reaffirmed the government's commitment to transparent, accountable and people-centric governance. He said direct interaction with the public enables the administration to better understand local aspirations and ensures timely resolution of issues affecting people's daily lives.
The Minister assured the gathering that all genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned departments and addressed on priority. He also directed officials to maintain close coordination with public representatives and ensure prompt follow-up on issues requiring immediate attention.
Addressing the gathering, Sharma expressed serious concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, describing it as one of the most pressing social challenges facing society. He said substance abuse poses a grave threat to the future of the younger generation and undermines families, communities and social harmony.
Calling for a collective response, the Minister urged parents, teachers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and youth to work together in building a drug-free society. He stressed that eliminating drug abuse requires sustained public participation, awareness and community vigilance alongside government efforts.
Highlighting the importance of sports, education and skill development, Sharma encouraged young people to channel their energies towards constructive activities that contribute to personal growth and nation-building. He said the Jammu and Kashmir Government remains committed to strengthening sports infrastructure, expanding youth engagement programmes and creating greater opportunities in education, employment and entrepreneurship.
Reiterating the government's commitment to balanced regional development, the Minister said every part of Jammu and Kashmir deserves equitable progress. He assured the people that focused attention would continue to be given to improving public infrastructure, transport connectivity, civic amenities and efficient delivery of government services.
Later, Sharma visited Drugmulla, where he chaired a public darbar and interacted with local residents. People raised issues related to infrastructure development, public utilities, road connectivity, transport services and other civic concerns.
The Minister assured the public that all genuine grievances would be addressed in a transparent and time-bound manner through coordination with the concerned departments. He also directed officers to remain accessible to the people, adopt a proactive approach towards grievance redressal and ensure that government welfare schemes reach every eligible beneficiary without delay.
Senior officers from the civil administration and various line departments, besides public representatives and local leaders, attended both public outreach programmes. ANB
