BALBIR RAM RATTAN
In 2024, the Government at the centre, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, completed ten years of governance and began a historic third consecutive term. This period has been marked by remarkable strides in development across the country, and Jammu and Kashmir is no exception. Under Narendra Modi’s lead ership, the Union Territory has seen rapid advancements in key sectors like health and education, transforming the lives of millions.
The ground realities speak volumes of the practical work done, from improving health care access to revolutionizing education for the youth.
Health Sector: A Revolution in Care and Infrastructure
One of the Modi government’s most notable achievements in Jammu and Kashmir is the revolution in healthcare infrastructure. For the first time, more than 40 lakh residents have received Golden Health Cards under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, granting every citizen health insurance coverage up to Rs 5 lakh. This comprehensive health security is a monumental step forward, ensuring access to quality care for all, particularly the marginalized and underserved population.
The establishment of two AIIMS, one in Jammu and the other in Kashmir, is another historic feat. The AIIMS in Jammu has already commenced OPD services, providing world-class healthcare to people closer to home. In addition, seven medical colleges at the district level have been set up, ending the reliance on referrals to Jammu Medical College Hospital. Complementing this growth are the seven new nursing homes established for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir, further expanding the region’s healthcare net
work.
The government’s efforts didn’t stop here two DRDO hospitals (one in Jammu and one in the Valley) have been established to meet critical healthcare needs. Furthermore, oxy gen plants have been set up in every district, ensuring preparedness in times of crisis.
Health and Wellness Centres now operate across the region, providing preventive and primary healthcare to thousands of families.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Modi government’s prompt action was evident in the free vaccination drive that reached millions, including the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushdhi Pariyojana has made affordable generic medicines widely available, and Jan Aushadi Kendras now offer sanitary napkins at minimal prices, promoting women’s health and dignity.
Education: A Bright Future for Jammu & Kashmir’s Youth
The education sector has seen a quantum leap under Prime Minister Modi’s government. Since 2019, 51 new degree colleges have been established in Jammu and Kashmir. This surge in higher education infrastructure is complemented by the establishment of premier institutions such as IIT, IIM, and seven
new medical colleges, all contributing to an elevated academic ecosystem in the region. size affordable healthcare, education, and holistic well-being for every resident. The establishment of 100 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, recruitment of additional doctors and paramedical staff, and the expansion of diagnostic and maternal healthcare services are among the pledges made to transform healthcare access even further.
The BJP government’s vision for education in Jammu and Kashmir extends beyond these achievements. The Sankalp Patra, the party’s election manifesto, ensures comprehensive
support for education at every level. It promises the modernization of over 23,000 government schools and colleges, equipping them with advanced technology, online learning platforms, and free Wi-Fi access. Additionally, the manifesto commits to launching Mission Pravesh, a focused literacy initiative aimed at
ensuring foundational literacy and numeracy by 2030.
This education drive will see the upgrading of all 28,178 existing Anganwadis into Saksham Anganwadis, transforming early childhood education. Scholarships, free transportation, and hostel facilities for economical ly weaker sections (EWS), girls, and different ly-abled students will be prioritized, creating a level playing field for marginalized communities.
In a region striving for better educational prospects, these initiatives mark a pivotal moment in securing the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth. The commitment to establishing new institutions, including a Tribal University in Rajouri-Poonch and a Sharda University in Kashmir, further underscores the government’s focus on creating opportunities for students from every corner of the Union Territory.
The Path Forward: A Vision for Growth
As the BJP contests the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the promises made in its Sankalp Patra further emphasis affordable healthcare, education, and holistic well-being for every resident. The establishment of 100 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, recruitment of additional doctors
and paramedical staff, and the expansion of diagnostic and maternal healthcare services are among the pledges made to transform healthcare access even further.
In education, the government plans to add 1,000 new seats to government medical colleges, provide tablets and laptops to students in remote areas, and create scholarships and free transportation services for disadvantaged students. With the creation of new institutions like the National Law University and the National Institute of Sports (NIS) and enact a Private Universities Act to incentivize establishment of Private colleges and universities in Jammu and Kashmir is set to emerge as a knowledge hub.
A Decade of Unmatched Progress
In just ten years, what previous governments could not achieve in seventy years has been accomplished under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The transformation of Jammu and Kashmir’s healthcare and education sectors stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of its people. This decade of progress, marked by tangible outcomes and unprecedented growth, ensures a brighter and more prosperous future for Jammu and Kashmir.
With a visionary leader at the helm, Jammu and Kashmir continues to march towards development, peace, and well-being for all its citizens.
