Srinagar (NVI): Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Yesso Naik today said the Centre will extend its North-east model of development to the Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir, in a bid to trigger overall growth in different areas in the Valley.
As part of Centre’s outreach programme, Naik arrived in Kashmir today and addressed various delegations here at SKICC.
He said the Union Territory will witness “north-eastern states like development in coming years.”
“North-east has witnessed an immense development in last five years. So to follow this model, we will complete all the developmental works and schemes, which witnessed no progress for years. The central government and union territory administration will work in coordination to count Jammu and Kashmir among developed places of India,” he said.
Naik said of the 1,644 projects sanctioned under Rs 8,000 crore, Prime Minister’s development package, works on 559 water supply schemes have been taken up by the administration in the UT.
“These 559 water supply schemes cost Rs 965 crore. Besides, 500 connectivity works have been allotted under PMGSY and 700-kilometer road length has been macadamized,” he said.
The Union minister said new power projects were coming up to enhance the power generation capacity by additional 3,500 megawatts.
“Currently, Kashmir generates 12,000 megawatts electricity. Now some more power projects are coming up to increase the capacity by additional 3,500 megaWatts,” he said.
Naik, who is also the Union Minister of State for AYUSH, said that the Centre is “keen” to promote Kashmir as a prime medical tourism destination of India.
“Nature has bestowed the valley with enough greenery and clean atmosphere. So it can prove to be as good medical tourism destination,” he said.
He also said that at least 90 new health centres will come up in J&K to improve the medical facilities for the people.
“Country-wide 12,5000 health centres are being set up, which will include at least 12,500 dedicated AYUSH units. Every district will now have 50 bedded AYUSH hospitals in Kashmir. People will get treatment of their choice and more than the requirement,” he said.
The Union Minister said the government has already introduced the health insurance cover of Rupees five lakh for financially weak families.
“They won’t have to worry now about the medical expenses. People can get better medical facilities through the insurance cover to treat the diseases,” he said.
He said an equal emphasis was being given to the areas known for growing medicinal herbs. “Apart from generating source of income for the people, Kashmir will be known for its medicinal herbs, which can treat various diseases,” he said.
