Jammu, Aug 15: Amid increasing incidents of cloudbursts, floods, landslides and other extreme weather events in Jammu and Kashmir, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Saturday called for greater public participation in afforestation and environmental conservation.
Addressing people after hoisting the National Flag at M.A. Stadium on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Choudhary urged citizens to give practical meaning to initiatives such as “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” by not only planting trees but also ensuring their survival.
He said environmental protection could not be left to the government alone and required active participation from every section of society.
Referring to the recent natural disasters in Jammu and Kashmir, the Deputy Chief Minister said the government had taken prompt measures to restore connectivity and provide relief and assistance to affected people.
He assured that all possible support would continue to be extended to families and areas affected by recent cloudbursts and floods.
Choudhary also stressed the need for coordinated efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and protect vulnerable areas from the impact of extreme weather events.
The Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the parade and saluted the participating contingents.
The Deputy Chief Minister extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the nation on the 80th Independence Day and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice for the country’s independence.
He recalled the long and historic struggle for freedom and highlighted the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters who fought against colonial rule. He said the Tricolour is a symbol of sacrifices, unity, brotherhood and collective aspiration of every Indian.
The Deputy Chief Minister also paid rich tributes to the Armed Forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking on the development journey of the country, he said India has made remarkable progress since independence and is today among the leading economies of the world. He credited farmers, soldiers, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, workers and citizens from all walks of life for contributing to the nation’s progress.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s role in Nation-building, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Government remains firmly committed to ensuring all-round, balanced and inclusive development across the Union Territory. He said focused attention is being given to roads, bridges, power, water supply, healthcare, education, agriculture, industries and other vital sectors.
The Deputy Chief Minister said strengthening the industrial sector is one of the Government’s priorities and efforts are underway to establish new industries and generate employment opportunities for local youth. He emphasised that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir must receive priority in emerging employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
On youth empowerment, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Government is working to create opportunities in both government employment and self-employment. He referred to recruitments made in various departments and vacancies referred to the JKSSRB and JKPSC, expressing hope that the recruitment process would be completed at the earliest.
He also highlighted initiatives in education and healthcare, saying that efforts are being made to improve access to quality education and expand healthcare infrastructure and opportunities for medical education in Jammu and Kashmir.
