Omar Govt committed to uplift marginalised, improve living standards of people: Sadhotra

JAMMU: Former minister and National Conference Additional General Secretary Mr Ajay Kumar Sadhotra on Sunday said the government headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is firmly committed to improving the living standards of the common people, with special focus on marginalised and economically weaker sections of society.

Addressing party workers at Ward No 05 of Jammu Cantonment at Raipur (Satwari). The meeting was organized by Sardar Jatinder Singh Lucky Former Chairman Cantonment Board.Mr Sadhotra enumerated various welfare measures taken during the past more than one and half year and said the government has translated its promises into concrete action.

“The focus of the present dispensation is clear — to provide relief to the poor, empower the youth and ensure equitable development across Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. Mr Sadhotra highlighted the introduction of free bus service for women and physically challenged persons, saying the initiative has provided much-needed financial relief and improved mobility for thousands of beneficiaries. This step has eased the burden on household budgets and also enabled women girl students to travel safely and independently, he added.

He also referred to the provision of 200 units of free electricity to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families, saying that the measure has brought respite to the most vulnerable households. Affordable power is a basic necessity, and this initiative has helped reduce the financial strain on poor families, he said. Mr Sadhotra said the government has enhanced old-age and handicapped pensions to ensure social security for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Elderly and specially-abled citizens deserve dignity and care. The NC is committed to safeguarding their welfare, he said.

Mr Sadhotra  said the continuation of free ration for eligible AAY families, describing it as a major support system for economically weaker sections. He also referred to marriage assistance for girls from underprivileged families, saying that the scheme has helped reduce financial stress on poor households.

Among other initiatives, he highlighted measures aimed at strengthening healthcare facilities, improving school infrastructure, boosting rural development works and accelerating employment-oriented programmes. He said special thrust has been laid on skill development, self-employment schemes and support for small businesses to stimulate economic activity.

The National Conference stands for inclusive and equitable development of all regions and sub-regions, irrespective of region, religion or caste. No area and no section will be neglected, he asserted. Mr Sadhotra said the NC government’s approach is rooted in inclusivity and fairness. 

He said balanced regional development remains a top priority and that efforts are being made to address long-pending issues in both urban and rural areas. Infrastructure development, better roads, improved water supply and enhanced civic amenities are being taken up in a phased and systematic manner, he added.

Reiterating the party’s commitment, Mr Sadhotra said that under the leadership of NC President Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah, the National Conference government is determined to fulfil all promises made to the people. “The National Conference is working with commitment to empower youth, generate employment opportunities and give a fillip to economic growth. Our objective is to build a prosperous, progressive and socially just Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

Mr Sadhotra urged party workers to take the government’s achievements to the grassroots level and strengthen public outreach. He expressed confidence that sustained efforts and people-centric policies would further reinforce public trust in the National Conference and accelerate the pace of development across Jammu and Kashmir.

Scores of people, men and women, joined the National Conference in the meeting. Prominent who joined the party are Subash Kumar, Sunny Kumar, Sunil Kumar, Radhe Shivgotra, Neeju Kumar, Jatin Kumar, Avinash, Abishek Kumar, Kamal Kumar, Ayush Sharma, Nikhil Manhas and Harsh Kumar.

 Mr Sadhotra welcomed the new entrants and hope that they will work dedicatedly with full zeal and strengthen the party and hands of Dr. Farooq Abdullah,  Hon’ble President JKNC and Omar Abdullah Hon’ble  Vice President JKNC  and Hon’ble Chief Minister J&K.

Among others who spoke in the meeting  included: Ayub Malik Provincial Secretary Jammu, Naresh Bittu District President Jammu Rural “B”, Abdul Gani Teli Chairman OBC Cell, Ashwani Charak Block President Jammu East, Sardar Gurmeet Singh and others.