KL NEWS NETWORK
SRINAGAR
Finance Minister Dr Haseeb Drabu unfurled the tricolour in Budgam and listed various initiatives of the ruling coalition. He said J&K needs major changes particularly in socio-economic diversification, political transparency, change in mindset of younger generation and change in uplift of society.
“This will materialize only when we are committed to give equal chances to all regions of the state to have equitable development, empowerment and economic prosperity,” Drabu said, insisting the government is committed to protect J&K’s distinct identity.
Minister said when the present coalition government assumed office in March 2015 the state’s financial position was in a precarious state with around Rs 9000 crore liabilities from the previous regime. “The state treasuries were not in a position to negotiate financial expenses,” Drabu said. “The state needs reform and changes on many fronts to improve the developmental scenario.”
“The devastating floods of September 2014 annihilated our economy and infrastructure and led to a developmental vacuum,” Drabu asserted. He said rehabilitation and the reconstruction process would be taken to the logical conclusion. He said a comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction plan would be announced soon for flood affected and its focus will be on relief, rehabilitation and livelihood.
Referring to unemployment, Drabu, who is also employment minister, said the Government is going to fill up 10000 vacancies in next 4 months and for this purpose recruiting agencies have already been directed to expedite the process. “However, the unemployment can’t be tackled only by providing government jobs and other means shall have to be explored to create opportunities in various sectors outside the government,” Drabu said.
Drabu said coalition government has initiated many programmes where in all the district shall be provided sufficient funds under district plan to develop infrastructure and expand economy. He said for this purpose Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has enhanced district plans of all districts to a huge extent.
“If we use these funds judiciously more and more employment opportunities can be created,” Drabu said. He impressed upon all concerned agencies to create a system of honesty and also bring transparency in fund spending.
