Azad calls for developing the backward areas

Jammu, Mar 12 (UNI) Elaborating the vision of 'Khushhal Jammu and Kashmir,' Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said a new blue print of government policy has been drawn to develop certain areas in the state.

Addressing public gatherings at flour places of Kota, Changa, Jakyas and Akhyaspur in Bhalessa, he said the vision of a prosperous state lies in the development and progress of backward, far-off, hilly and under-developed areas. ''Unless and until our villages, hamlets and backward areas are pulled out of poverty and economic distress, the development of the state would be lopsided.'' The Chief Minister declared that enhancement of next district plan allocations by 10 per cent and keeping these without loan component is a step towards development and upliftment of poorer villages and constituencies.

Directions have already been given to the planning department for providing adequate attention towards weaker districts, weaker tehsils and blocks for speedy development, he added.

Emphasising on the need for communication, he said, road network is the lifeline for the economic stability and growth, hence, attention has to be given for upgradation, improvement and construction of dependable road network. This would help to open up vistas of trade, marketing and other economic activities.

Azad said, ''the highest priority under 'Bharat Nirman' would be given to the road connectivity in rural areas. I have observed that the people living in far-off rural areas are not getting adequate healthcare facility and are deprived of modern medical treatment available in cities and major towns.'' He said under the new strategy, rural hospitals were being modernised and strengthened with adequate equipment and available healthcare technology to cater to the needs of poor people.

Mr Azad said the state had abundant resources as far as griculture, horticulture and allied activities are concerned. The government is giving new impetus to the development of these sectors to open employment opportunities for the youth on one hand and give stability and strength to the economy of the state on the other, he added.

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