After assuming office, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests and Tribal Affairs, Javaid Ahmad Rana today held maiden visit of district Anantnag to get first-hand appraisal of functioning of Gujjar and Pahari Hostels in the district. The Minister was accompanied by Members of Legislative Assembly Reyaz Ahmad Khan, Altaf Ahmad Wani, Zafar Ali Khatana and Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri.
Secretary Tribal Affairs, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Senior Superintendent of Police and other senior officers of district administration were also present on the occasion. During the visit, Javaid Rana interacted with tribal students and patiently listened their concerns and issues.
The Minister on the occasion also had a brief meeting with senior officers of district administration, where he advised them to ensure participation of local residents in planning and development activities. He instructed them to be alert and proactive towards peoples expectations and ensure efficient delivery of all government services.
Significantly, during the visit, Javid Rana announced increase in dietary charges for candidates from rupees 100 to 175 per day. He also announced 100 kanals for Gujjar Hostel which shall be made available by District Administration.
The Minister also called upon the district administration for upgradation of infrastructure and basic facilities along with immediate repair and renovation of damaged building due to recent fire mishap. The Minister also announced that the existing Pahari hostel shall be shifted to a new well furnished building.
The Minister was also informed that the proposal for construction of Pahari hostel is already in advanced stage. Later, delegations from the tribal communities also called on the Minister and presented their demands before him. While interacting with delegations, Javid Rana highlighted that the Omar Abdullah led government is committed towards addressing the demands of tribal communities.
“Empowering our tribal population is our priority and continuing legacy of our founder Sher-e- Kashmir, Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah and our government is committed to uplift the unprivileged and downtrodden communities”, Rana said. He added that we will ensure all necessary funds are released in consultation with the Ministries of Union Government.
This visit primarily underscores the government’s focus on ensuring a balanced and speedy development of tribal communities.