Dr Jitendra urges focus on public welfare, strict action against illegal mining
STATE TIMES NEWS
UDHAMPUR/RAMBAN: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh chaired the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meetings in Udhampur and Ramban on Sunday, emphasizing strict enforcement against illegal mining, effective implementation of welfare schemes, and strengthening public infrastructure.
In Udhampur, Dr Singh took a serious view of illegal mining in the district, directing authorities to report all cases in non-allotted areas to law enforcement agencies for strict and exemplary action.
During the meeting, he handed over an approval letter sanctioning Rs 14 crore from his MP fund for the procurement of an ambulance for Government Medical College Udhampur.
Highlighting the importance of public outreach, the Minister urged local representatives and district administration to conduct awareness programmes on welfare schemes like PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, which provides subsidies of up to 40% for rooftop solar panels, making renewable energy more accessible.
He also called for a participatory approach to development, engaging Panchayati Raj Institutions, DDC members, and local representatives, and suggested promoting the local milch product ‘Kaladi’ under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative to support startups and livelihoods.
Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai reported significant growth in Centrally-Sponsored Schemes, updates on PMGSY road maintenance, and progress under Jal Jeevan Mission, with 160 schemes sanctioned in the district, 13 of which are completed. Strict directions have also been issued to curb private practice by resident doctors at GMC Udhampur.
In Ramban, Dr Singh lauded the district administration for completing 100% relief work on flood-damaged houses. He highlighted Ramban’s achievements in healthcare, including full saturation under PM-JAY and screening of all patients for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), announcing the upcoming launch of PM-JAY 2.0.
The Minister also provided an ambulance under MPLAD funds and emphasized the recruitment of contractual medical staff to address personnel shortages. He stressed the need for effective monitoring of welfare schemes, ensuring uninterrupted electricity and water supply, and improving road connectivity in remote areas.
Both meetings were attended by MLAs, DDC Chairpersons, Deputy Commissioners, senior civil and police officers, and DISHA Committee members, reflecting a coordinated effort towards holistic development and citizen welfare in Udhampur and Ramban districts.
