Satish Sharma reviews development projects, flagship schemes in Reasi

Reasi, Dec 9: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, IT, Youth Services & Sports and ARI, Satish Sharma, Tuesday chaired a review meeting to assess progress on development projects and flagship schemes under implementation across Reasi district.
The meeting was attended by DDC Chairperson Reasi, Saraf Singh Nag; MLA Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Baldev Raj Sharma; MLA Reasi, Kuldeep Raj Dubey; MLA Gulabgarh, Er. Khurshied Ahmed; Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Nidhi Malik; Vice Chairperson DDC, Sajra Qadir, along with Heads of Departments and senior officers from different sectors.
Reviewing major infrastructure works, the Minister assessed the status of Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Express Highway, Reasi–Arnas–Mahore Road and other important road projects. He had a comprehensive department-wise review of Social Welfare, Health, Education, Food Supplies, Youth Services & Sports and several allied sectors. He emphasized achieving 100 percent coverage of all eligible beneficiaries under government schemes. He called for intensified public awareness efforts so that the people can avail these benefits to the fullest.
Appreciating the ongoing activities under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, the Minister directed the departments to strengthen efforts towards making Reasi a drug-free district. He also acknowledged the district’s remarkable achievements under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). He instructed the agricultural and allied departments to extend maximum benefits to the eligible farmers.
The public representatives raised several issues concerning roads, transport and tourism.
The Minister assured that all their genuine concerns would be addressed within stipulated timelines. He instructed the officers to ensure active involvement of elected representatives in all developmental programs for enhanced outcomes. He also directed the departments to keep them updated regularly.
While reviewing functioning of the Motor Vehicles Department, the Minister asked the RTO Reasi to conduct regular medical examinations of drivers to promote road safety and prevent accidents caused by health-related issues.
The Minister further directed the Sports department to consult local MLAs while planning the construction and upgradation of playgrounds.
He directed the Assistant Director, Food, to hold consultations with the local residents to improve the food distribution system and address ground-level concerns effectively.
The Minister exhorted upon all the departments to work with renewed commitment towards ensuring the holistic and inclusive development of Reasi district.
Issues concerning the migrant families residing in Talwara were prominently raised during the meeting. It was highlighted that these families have not been receiving benefits under the government schemes and are yet to be included in the ration card system.
The Minister assured that the issue would be taken up with the concerned department for early redressal.
He also reviewed the status of compensation for the people affected by recent heavy rains and landslides, directing the departments to ensure timely relief to all eligible beneficiaries.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik gave a detailed sector-wise PowerPoint Presentation on ongoing projects. She highlighted the progress achieved, so far, on major initiatives across the district.