Completion of pending projects priority of J

New Delhi, Feb 24 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today said his government will take up on priority basis, completion of pending projects and ensure growth and overall development of the state.

Mr Azad, who finalised the Jammu and Kashmir annual plan outlay for 2006-07 with Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia, said the economic and social development will be given priority while utilising central resources.

He said attention was given to provide basic infrastructure, particularly in health and education sectors.

''To improve efficiency in the administration physical monitoring is being strengthened and the system is being made more transparent,'' he added.

Mr Azad said since he took over as the Chief Minister 1000 schemes costing Rs 50 lakh were completed, 182 primary schools opened and 37 high schools upgraded.

''The state government has started a new scheme for construction of rural roads under the Bharat Nirman through an innovative initiative giving jobs jobs in lieu of land,'' he added.

About the panchayat elections in the state, he said they will be held within two to three months.

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