Education key to development: Azad

Jammu, Dec 30 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today said the government has put development of education and infrastructure on fast track, especially in far-flung areas, for integrated progress.

Keeping in view the importance of education, government is according highest priority to this sector, the Chief Minister said.

Mr Azad was addressing a huge gathering at Sohal after taking stock of damage caused to houses in a fire incident at Ungai in Padder area of Doda district adjoining Himachal Pradesh.

He called upon the people of Padder and other such far-flung areas to focus attention on educating their children. It is not only important for seeking jobs but imperative for pursuing any avocation, be it business or agriculture, he added.

Education also comes handy in having awareness about various schemes of government and to optimally benefit from these, Mr Azad said, adding that education is a symbol of prosperity.

Referring to single crop pattern in the area, owing to its topography, the Chief Minister emphasised for diversification of agriculture by adopting latest farm techniques in consultation with experts for realising highest farm yield.

Asking the farmers to take to horticulture as a means of economic well-being, he said the sector had great potential in the area. He further told them aboyut various schemes that have been launched by the government for the purpose, assuring all support, including availability of plant material.

He said the plantation season has already commenced in hilly areas like Padder and farmers should go in for planting fruit plants in a big way.

The government has embarked upon a comprehensive infrastructure development programme for ensuring road connectivity, education, health care and other basic amenities in the remotest corners of the state to make all areas of Jammu and Kashmir developed and prosperous, Mr Azad said.

Referring to the development demands of the area projected on the occasion, he announced upgradation of middle school at Sohal to high school level.

Talking to the people affected in the fire incident, Mr Azad said the government has already provided Rs 5000 in cash, blankets, ration and warm clothes to them. The affected families would be provided free ration for six months.

Deputy Commissioner of Doda, Pawan Kotwal accompanied Mr Azad during the visit.

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