Srinagar, Apr 28: Asserting that government is moving ahead with large-scale road infrastructure expansion under PMGSY-IV, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a major transformation in rural connectivity.
Addressing the launch ceremony of PMGSY-IV (Batch-II) held at SKICC here, CM Omar said, “The PMGSY-IV is aimed at linking unconnected habitations across the Union Territory.”
During the event Union Minister for Rural Development, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan formally handed over the Rs 3,566 crore sanction letter to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Pertinently, the package under PMGSY-IV (Batch-II) will connect 363 habitations through 330 roads covering around 1,600 kilometres, significantly boosting last-mile connectivity in rural and hilly areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
Welcoming the Union Minister, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a true friend and well-wisher of Jammu and Kashmir and referred to him as “Mama”—a widely known public identity associated with him in Madhya Pradesh.
“You are not only a friend of J&K but also a true well-wisher. Even in Madhya Pradesh, people call you ‘Mama’ and that acceptance reflects the respect you have earned,” CM Omar said.
He said the Union Minister has consistently supported Jammu and Kashmir’s development agenda over the last one and a half years of the elected government.
Omar said coordination between the Centre and UT administration has strengthened through continuous engagement on development matters.
He stated: “Whatever sanctions have been given, we will ensure work starts on the ground. In the coming months, we will begin implementation and take forward remaining requirements as well.”
Referring to rural connectivity, the Chief Minister said PMGSY has significantly transformed life in remote and mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
“People who once had to walk four to five hours to reach a road now have access to motorable connectivity. Due to Phase 2, Phase 3 and now Phase 4, access to hospitals, schools and markets has improved,” he said.
He added that roads remain the lifeline of development and the government’s focus is on connecting every remaining habitation, especially in scattered and hilly areas.
“Our real strength lies in villages. Our heritage and economy are rooted in rural areas and our effort is to strengthen the rural economy in every possible way,” he said.
CM Omar also highlighted ongoing initiatives under rural development and livelihood missions, particularly Self-Help Groups under NRLM, saying efforts are being made to expand opportunities for women-led enterprises.
He expressed optimism about women empowerment outcomes, stating his vision of “Lakhpati Didis” progressing towards “Crorepati Didis” through sustained support and capacity building.
He also stressed the need for stronger crop insurance mechanisms to protect farmers from weather-related risks affecting agriculture and horticulture sectors.
Meanwhile, during the event, the Union Minister also released Rs 4,568 crore Mother Sanction under DAY-NRLM for women Self-Help Groups across 24 States and UTs, including support for Jammu and Kashmir. (KNO)
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