SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday paid a visit to Kishtwar, where he also offered his respects at the revered Shri Chandi Mata Machail shrine.
Joining the Lt Governor on this visit were Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary; Alok Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Higher Education Department; Mukesh Singh, ADGP Jammu; Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lt Governor; and Sunil Sharma, former Minister.
During his trip, Sinha reviewed the facilities provided to pilgrims and engaged in discussions with local residents.
At Gulabgarh Paddar, the Lt Governor addressed representatives of PRIs and citizens, highlighting the UT Administration’s efforts towards the comprehensive development of Kishtwar.
He emphasised the administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring balanced development, addressing community requirements, and guaranteeing that no segment of society is overlooked.
“In the past three years, we have undertaken numerous initiatives to address the concerns of Kishtwar’s people, expand employment opportunities, and enhance connectivity in rural areas,” said the Lt Governor.
The revival of a cinema theatre after a three-decade hiatus, improvements in road and communication infrastructure, bolstered power networks, and enhanced health, sports, and educational facilities all underscore our dedication to raising the district’s living standards, he asserted.
Discussing the measures taken to enhance infrastructure and amenities for the Holy Machail Mata pilgrimage, the Lt Governor reiterated the administration’s dedication to providing a seamless and hassle-free pilgrimage experience.
He noted that the construction of roads, solar power facilities, and tented accommodations for pilgrims has led to a surge in pilgrim numbers, surpassing one lakh this year.
The Lt Governor expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for their support in surveying and conducting gemological studies on Sapphire mines.
He revealed plans for the scientific auctioning of Sapphire mines within the next year, projecting a significant economic boost for the local economy and a substantial contribution to Jammu and Kashmir’s growth.
Addressing concerns presented by PRIs and locals, the Lt Governor assured prompt action on all public demands raised during the interactions. He also instructed the Principal Secretaries of Higher Education and Public Works (R&B) to collaborate with stakeholders and take concrete steps to swiftly address the respective departmental issues.
The Lt Governor urged active participation from PRIs and the public in implementing the UT Administration’s initiatives to drive Kishtwar’s development forward.
He encouraged the district’s youth to make the most of the government’s homestay schemes and associated benefits.
The Lt Governor also visited the Buddhist Gompa at Paddar, where he sought blessings from Lord Buddha and engaged with members of the Buddhist community.
“The Buddhist community is an integral and equal part of our society, with rightful access to resources. The administration is committed to assisting in their comprehensive growth and empowerment,” remarked the Lt Governor.
Students from the Government Degree College and the Himalayan Cultural School Gulabgarh showcased Padari and Buddhist folk dance performances.
The occasion saw the presence of Dr. Devansh Yadav, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar; PRI representatives; senior officers; and a large number of local residents.
