Include uncovered areas under JJM, RSY schemes: MP Khatana

• Commends LG’s Public Outreach Program for enhancing citizen voices

SRINAGAR: Member of Parliament and Senior BJP Leader, Er. Gulam Ali Khatana has urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to extend the coverage of two crucial welfare schemes to the remaining remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The MP emphasized the need to bring the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and the Rooftop Solar Yojana (RSY) schemes to all citizens of the Union Territory, regardless of geographical barriers.

The JJM aims to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections, while the Rooftop Solar Yojana, or the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana seeks to achieve universal household electrification. “The scheme aims to provide 300 units of free electricity every month to light up one crore households. The objective of this scheme is to reduce the electricity costs of the house by installing rooftop solar panels and using solar energy”, the MP said. Both schemes, launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, have been instrumental in improving the quality of life for numerous residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

However, Khatana pointed out that several remote areas remain uncovered by these schemes. He specifically mentioned Gulabgarh in Reasi district, Marwah Sub Division of Kishtwar district, and various areas in Ramban, Doda, Rajouri, and Poonch districts.

“I received numerous deputations from these regions, with residents expressing their long-standing wait for these basic amenities”, he added. Khatana commended Lt. Governor Sinha’s public outreach program, which has provided a platform for citizens to voice their concerns directly to the administration. Nevertheless, he stressed that immediate attention is required in areas still lacking basic amenities like potable water and electricity.

The MP’s appeal comes at a time when the Union Territory is striving to achieve 100% coverage under both schemes. While significant progress has been made, the challenging terrain and remote locations of some areas have posed obstacles to complete implementation.

Khatana highlighted the ongoing challenges in infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in its more isolated regions. It also underscores the importance of these central government schemes in bridging the development gap between urban and rural areas.

The MP expressed hope that the administration would achieve 100% coverage by providing drinking water and electricity to the remaining population. This call to action aligns with the central government’s vision of inclusive development and the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ (Together with all, Development for all). As Jammu and Kashmir continues its journey towards full integration with the rest of India, the successful implementation of these schemes could play a crucial role in improving living standards and fostering a sense of inclusion among residents of remote areas.