A delegation from the NITI Aayog has emphasized the critical need to improve educational outcomes and the existing infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. The observations were made during a high-level meeting with the Union Territory’s Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the delegation, led by NITI Aayog member M. Srinivas, presented a detailed assessment of the development landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. The report covered key sectors including education, skill development, health, agriculture, industry, urban development, tourism, infrastructure, water resources, and renewable energy.
During the deliberations, the NITI Aayog delegation specifically highlighted the imperative to further enhance educational outcomes and strengthen infrastructure within the Union Territory. The officials also stressed the importance of fostering robust linkages between academia and industry to create more employment opportunities. Addressing gaps in human resources and infrastructure within the health sector, and improving primary healthcare delivery were also identified as crucial areas requiring attention.
In the domains of agriculture and allied sectors, the delegation focused on the necessity of improving irrigation facilities, modernizing horticulture practices, and reducing post-harvest losses. The development of cold-chain and processing infrastructure, enhancement of livestock services, value-chain development, and strengthening market linkages were also put forward as key areas for advancement.
To accelerate economic growth and boost employment generation, NITI Aayog suggested the promotion of sector-specific industrial clusters. Strengthening Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and fostering employment-intensive manufacturing were also recommended. Furthermore, the delegation advised on improving logistics and export infrastructure, promoting green mobility, and cultivating a more robust innovation and startup ecosystem within the Union Territory.
The presentation also touched upon measures for sustainable urban development. These included enhancing water security, improving sewage treatment facilities, undertaking river rejuvenation projects, and ensuring the faster implementation of schemes such as AMRUT 2.0 and PMAY-U. Improvements to urban roads and the expansion of public transport networks were also underscored.
The significant tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir was another focal point of the discussion. The delegation suggested improving last-mile connectivity and visitor amenities, promoting the homestay model, and leveraging the UT’s existing infrastructure to promote MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and event tourism.
The NITI Aayog delegation further emphasized the importance of timely completion of connectivity projects, improved water conservation measures, and enhanced irrigation infrastructure. Greater utilization of renewable energy potential, particularly through decentralized solar energy initiatives and the PM-Surya Ghar scheme, was also advocated.
The delegation’s comprehensive assessment provided insights into the achievements, key sectoral gaps, and potential interventions required to accelerate socio-economic development. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha acknowledged the detailed sectoral assessment and highlighted the significant development initiatives undertaken in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years. He reiterated that the government of India and the J-K administration are collaborating towards the vision of a ‘Viksit Jammu Kashmir,’ with a steadfast focus on infrastructure development, improved public service delivery, employment generation, investment, and inclusive socio-economic progress.
In response to the report, Lieutenant Governor Sinha proposed that NITI Aayog undertake a focused assessment to identify actionable measures for the cleanliness and long-term ecological sustainability of the Dal Lake.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
