Major boost for Jammu and Kashmir: Road projects approved to accelerate rural development

Chouhan handed over the sanction letter for projects approved under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-IV (Batch-II) for Jammu & Kashmir to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at a programme held at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre in Srinagar.

On the occasion, a Mother Sanction of over Rs 4,568.23 crore was also released under DAY-NRLM for 24 States and Union Territories.

He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India is committed not only to building roads but also to connecting hearts, adding that for the development of Jammu & Kashmir, “the doors of both the heart and Delhi are open.”

He highlighted that Jammu & Kashmir was accorded priority in the first phase of PMGSY-IV approvals and has again been prioritised in the second phase, reflecting the Centre’s strong commitment to the region.

Focusing on women’s empowerment, the Union Minister said that a Mother Sanction exceeding Rs 4,568.23 crore has been released under DAY-NRLM for women Self-Help Groups across 24 States and Union Territories.

Addressing the women of Jammu & Kashmir, he said the goal is not limited to creating “Lakhpati Didis” but to transform them into stronger and more empowered entrepreneurs.

During the programme, Chouhan and Omar Abdullah also felicitated Lakhpati Didis.

Highlighting integrated farming as an effective model for enhancing farmers’ income, Chouhan said that instead of relying solely on grains, fruits, or vegetables, farmers can significantly increase their earnings by integrating allied activities such as animal husbandry, fisheries, sheep and goat rearing, beekeeping, and other enterprises.

He added that the Central Government will work closely with the Jammu & Kashmir Government to design an integrated programme that makes agriculture more profitable, sustainable, and employment-oriented.

In his address, Omar Abdullah warmly welcomed Chouhan, describing him as a true friend and well-wisher of Jammu & Kashmir.

“I wholeheartedly welcome Shivraj Singh Chouhan to Srinagar and express my gratitude. You have repeatedly demonstrated that you are a true friend and well-wisher of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. The affection you have earned as ‘Mama’ is well-deserved and suits you. We have accepted you with the same warmth and trust. You have spared no effort in strengthening our relationship. Your support and commitment towards the development of Jammu & Kashmir are truly commendable,” he said.

Omar Abdullah further stated that over the past one and a half years, Chouhan has consistently shown sensitivity towards the needs of Jammu & Kashmir.

Calling the Rs 8,000 crore approval extraordinary, he said such a large sanction in a single phase is significant, and the State Government will ensure speedy implementation on the ground.