Former Chief Minister and National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah stated that Jammu is now poised for inclusive development under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. This shift comes as the region experiences renewed efforts towards sustainable progress, moving away from a history of unmet promises.
Dr. Abdullah made these remarks while interacting with a delegation from the National Conference, emphasizing that the current government has renewed public confidence in democratic processes. The administration has made significant strides in making the corridors of power accessible to the common citizen, fostering a sense of ownership and participation.
During this meeting, the delegation raised various long-standing public issues that have persisted over the past decade, attributing these challenges to the misrule of the previous BJP administration. The delegation commended the remedial and developmental actions initiated by the Omar Abdullah-led government to counteract the setbacks faced by Jammu over recent years.
In discussing party structure and other organizational matters, Dr. Abdullah acknowledged the challenges that citizens endured during what many describe as years of undemocratic governance. He assured the gathering that the National Conference remains committed to addressing the public’s hardships.
“The Omar Abdullah-led government is making rapid strides to restore people’s faith in democratic institutions,” he asserted, reflecting a renewed sense of optimism among party members.
Dr. Abdullah further remarked on the widely discussed Smart City project, indicating that recent rains and subsequent waterlogging had cast doubt on its feasibility. This observation highlights ongoing concerns regarding infrastructure challenges despite official claims of progress.
He also pointed to initiatives undertaken by the present government aimed at preserving and revitalizing the historic Mubarak Mandi heritage complex, which has suffered from neglect for too long. The government has introduced free transport services for women, easing mobility challenges, along with additional ration quotas aiming to alleviate the financial burden on economically disadvantaged families. Moreover, the revival of the Darbar Move has stimulated economic activities, providing much-needed relief to traders in Jammu.
Dr. Abdullah outlined ongoing projects, including the construction of ropeways and the development of riversides and urban lakes. These efforts are set to position Jammu prominently on the national tourism map, highlighting the region’s potential.
As the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) and Panchayat elections approach, Dr. Abdullah urged party workers to strengthen outreach efforts. He stressed the importance of ensuring representation for youth and women in governance processes, aligning decision-making with the aspirations of these significant demographics.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, during a recent address at the Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust in Jammu, underscored the need for scientific research on climate change impacts affecting the Gujjar-Bakerwal community. He stated that such studies would be instrumental in shaping effective future policies that directly address community challenges.
Addressing the gathering on the third death anniversary of the esteemed Dr. Masud Ahmed Choudhary, a former Vice-Chancellor at Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Omar Abdullah acknowledged the immense talent present in Gujjar institutions. He highlighted the significance of directing this talent toward researching climate change, particularly due to the nomadic lifestyle of the Gujjar-Bakerwal community, which renders them highly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Omar Abdullah emphasized the importance of bolstering educational initiatives such as Gujjar hostels, schools, and mobile educational units while calling for a careful assessment of the current reservation policies.
“We have discussed reservation for years, but serious studies on its actual benefits remain absent,” he remarked.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah also encouraged the Gujjar community to prioritize unity and education, showcasing them as pivotal tools for securing a prosperous future for the upcoming generations.
The event saw active participation from several ministers, MLAs, former ministers, senior advocates, civil society members, and representatives of the Gujjar community, reflecting a broader interest in the political discourse surrounding Jammu’s development.
