BPL survey to help in comprehensive planning for poor: Omar

Srinagar, July 6: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today (Jul 6) said the fresh BPL survey ordered by the state government will help in comprehensive planning and development of people living below poverty line.

"I have sensitized the concerned departments about a fresh survey of BPL families in accordance with the Census 2011. It will help in comprehensive planning and development of people falling in this category," Omar told a group of BPL families during his weekly ''Awami Mulakat'' (Meet the People) here.

The Chief Minister, who was apprised by the families on matters relating to their welfare, said a legitimate list of such families was imperative to ensure benefits to them.

"There are a number of schemes for such families in health, education, CAPD and other sectors. A foolproof survey to compile the authentic list is need of the hour so that benefits percolate to them smoothly," he said.

Amelioration of weaker sections and those living below poverty line is the priority of his government, Omar said. To a group of artisans, he said promotion of handicrafts sector has been underlined as a focused area.

"This is the sector promising larger job opportunities and economic activities to the people in the state," he said.

Omar maintained that art and craft of Kashmir and the magical skill of artisans required proper nurturing.

"My government is aware of its importance, as such various measures have been taken in this direction," he said while assuring the artisans of full support and assistance from the government.

As many as 51 deputations and over 1,000 individuals met the Chief Minister and apprised him of various demands pertaining to the development in their areas, an official spokesman said.

The individuals sought the Chief Minister's intervention for redressal of their grievances, he said.

Omar also issued orders on matters of public importance at the interaction while other demands were forwarded to the concerned authorities for early action, the spokesman added.

PTI