Jitendra Singh Promotes Udhampur’s ‘Kaladi’ and Reviews Rural Development Projects at DISHA Meeting

Udhampur: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, while chairing the DISHA (District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee) meeting, made a strong case for promoting Udhampur’s famous milk product, “Kaladi,” through value addition and innovative fusion techniques. The local delicacy, which was recently mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a public rally, was highlighted as a product with significant potential to enhance the region’s economic profile.

Dr. Singh also noted the success of lavender cultivation in Bhaderwah and its recent adoption in the upper reaches of Latti in Udhampur. He urged elected representatives to support its growth into a viable StartUp opportunity, turning it into a sustainable source of livelihood for the local population.

During the meeting, the Minister responded to concerns raised by the Principal of the newly established Government Medical College. He announced the allocation of additional land for the institution and assured that upgraded ambulances and other essential resources would be provided from his personal MP fund (MPLAD). He emphasized the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, and directed immediate action to address the hospital’s needs.

Dr. Singh reviewed the implementation of various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), including Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), PM-Kisan, MGNREGA, and SAMAGRA Shiksha. He underscored the government’s mission to enhance the quality of life by ensuring efficient delivery of services and infrastructure. He stressed the importance of ensuring citizen satisfaction through effective governance and timely implementation of development projects.

The Minister emphasized the need to improve the quality of roads constructed under PMGSY and directed district authorities to monitor their maintenance. He called for immediate action against any lapses on the part of contractors and suggested prioritizing connectivity for habitations that remain unconnected under the scheme. Highlighting the urgency of the matter, he directed the administration to initiate pending road projects at the earliest.

Addressing the shortage of ambulances in hospitals, Dr. Singh recommended the utilization of MPLAD funds to procure these emergency vehicles. He also called for the recruitment of trained technicians to operate diagnostic machines, many of which remain unused due to a lack of expertise. He expressed concern over the dearth of teachers in government schools in rural areas, urging the rationalization of teaching resources to ensure students in underserved regions receive adequate education. He described students as the “architects of a developed Bharat” and stressed the importance of nurturing their potential.

Dr. Singh raised concerns about illegal mining in the district, citing its detrimental impact on the environment and public health. He called for a dedicated campaign to address the issue and safeguard the region’s ecological balance. He also proposed the creation of a public grievance portal to enable elected representatives to report issues and track their resolution efficiently, fostering greater accountability within the administration.

The Minister appealed to the district administration and local representatives to organize awareness camps highlighting the benefits of lavender cultivation, value addition to “Kaladi,” and government schemes such as PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, PM Vishwakarma, and PM SVANidhi. He encouraged local leaders to educate rural communities about these initiatives to enhance their economic prospects.

The meeting, attended by senior officials, local representatives, and district heads, concluded with a renewed commitment to improving connectivity, healthcare, and education while promoting local products and entrepreneurship. Dr. Singh reiterated the government’s dedication to ensuring ease of living and fostering sustainable development across the region.