Jammu and Kashmir is poised for a significant enhancement in its rural road infrastructure with the upcoming launch of the fourth phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV, Batch-II). Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan is scheduled to inaugurate the initiative in Srinagar.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the formal launch event will take place at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Conference Centre. The programme aims to accelerate rural connectivity and improve livelihoods across the Union Territory.
The PMGSY-IV initiative is set to introduce approximately 330 new roads, spanning a cumulative length of about 1,600 kilometres. This extensive road construction project carries an estimated cost of Rs 3550 crore and is projected to directly benefit 363 habitations by providing essential connectivity.
Officials highlighted that this new phase builds upon the substantial progress achieved since the inception of the PMGSY scheme in the year 2000. Across Jammu and Kashmir, the scheme has facilitated the completion of 3,328 roads covering 19,851 kilometres, alongside the construction of 257 bridges. These efforts have fundamentally transformed rural accessibility and connectivity throughout the region.
During the inauguration ceremony, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is expected to formally present the approval for the new phase of PMGSY to the Chief Minister. In addition to road infrastructure, approvals under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihoods Mission will also be distributed. A key focus of these distributions will be on bolstering women-led self-help groups and promoting income generation opportunities through the “Lakhpati Didi” initiative.
Minister Chouhan emphasized that rural development strategies are being pursued through an integrated approach. This involves not only expanding infrastructure but also actively promoting livelihood opportunities. He noted that the rural economy is being strengthened by the active engagement of nearly 96,000 Self-Help Groups, 7500 Village Organisations, and 650 Cluster-Level Federations.
He further stated that skill development, entrepreneurship, and community participation are integral components in establishing sustainable livelihoods, particularly for women and rural households. These interventions are viewed as crucial for fostering inclusive and equitable growth.
From an agricultural standpoint, farmers in Jammu and Kashmir are reportedly receiving substantial benefits from various central government flagship schemes. These include the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, and e-NAM. Additionally, various horticulture and micro-irrigation initiatives are contributing to the agricultural sector’s development.
The Union government maintains a strong focus on reinforcing rural infrastructure, enhancing farm incomes, and empowering grassroots communities. These multifaceted interventions are considered essential for ensuring comprehensive and sustainable development across Jammu and Kashmir.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
