Srinagar, Apr 28 (KNO): Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday launched PMGSY-IV (Batch-II) at SKICC Srinagar, saying that Jammu and Kashmir holds special emotional and developmental importance.
Addressing the gathering, Chouhan, per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), stressed that road connectivity is critical for inclusive growth, saying development remains incomplete without roads and highlighted continued challenges in remote areas due to lack of proper connectivity.
He said PMGSY-IV (Batch-II) would significantly enhance rural access and infrastructure across the Union Territory.
Chouhan said that in the past one year, projects worth around Rs 8,000 crore have been sanctioned under various rural development initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Union Minister reiterated that housing for all poor families remains a key priority, stating that no eligible household will be left without a permanent home.
He said women empowerment will be strengthened through self-help groups and by promoting rural entrepreneurship among women.
Focusing on agriculture, Chouhan said the region's small and fragmented landholdings require a tailored strategy to boost farmers' income. He said the government will promote an integrated farming system, encouraging farmers to combine agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, livestock and beekeeping to generate multiple income streams.
Referring to horticulture, he said productivity had been affected in the past due to poor-quality planting material, particularly in apple and walnut cultivation.
He announced that a Clean Plant Programme will be launched in collaboration with the University of Jammu and Kashmir to produce certified, disease-free planting material, along with the development of modern nurseries to supply quality saplings locally.
Chouhan said a team of ICAR scientists will be deputed to Jammu and Kashmir to assess agro-climatic conditions, soil health, water resources and crop suitability. The team will prepare a scientific roadmap for agriculture and horticulture development aimed at long-term productivity enhancement and crop diversification.
He said the Centre and the Union Territory administration will work in close coordination to implement the rural transformation agenda.
The Union Minister also highlighted the potential of Jammu and Kashmir's youth, stating that with the right opportunities, they can perform at the global level.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, senior officials and public representatives were present on the occasion—(KNO)