Former Chief Minister and National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah announced significant strides towards inclusive development in Jammu under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. He stated that the region, having endured years of hollow promises, is now experiencing a transformative phase guided by democratic processes.
During an interaction with National Conference delegates, Dr Abdullah emphasized that the current government has reinstated public confidence in governance. He highlighted the need for accessibility in power, ensuring that ordinary citizens have a voice in decision-making.
The delegation presented several long-standing issues that have arisen over the decade, attributing them to what they termed misrule by the prior BJP government. Dr Abdullah recognized the corrective actions taken by the Omar Abdullah-led government to mend the setbacks faced by Jammu city.
“The Omar Abdullah-led government is making rapid strides to restore people’s faith in democratic institutions,” he asserted. His remarks resonate with the government’s commitment to re-establish trust and engagement within the community.
Dr Abdullah critically addressed the much-touted Smart City project, highlighting recent rainfall-induced waterlogging which exposed the underlying inefficiencies in its execution. He fervently noted the need for accountability in such projects to genuinely benefit the citizens of Jammu.
Among the government’s initiatives, Dr Abdullah pointed out efforts to protect the historic Mubarak Mandi heritage complex, which had regrettably faced years of neglect. He lauded various measures, including free transport facilities for women, the additional ration quotas which alleviate the impoverished families’ burdens, and the restoration of the Darbar Move—which has revitalized economic activities and provided relief to local traders.
Highlighting the future trajectory, he expressed optimism about upcoming projects such as ropeways, riverside development, and the creation of lakes in Jammu city, stating these would significantly enhance Jammu’s national tourism profile.
Moreover, Dr Abdullah urged party workers to gear up for the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) and Panchayat elections, advocating for enhanced public outreach. He emphasized the necessity for special representation for youth, particularly women, to ensure governance truly reflects their needs and dreams.
Adding to the discussion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged Gujjar institutions to undertake scientific research focused on climate change and its impacts on the Gujjar-Bakerwal community. He stressed that such research would be instrumental in developing effective, evidence-based policies for the future.
Addressing a gathering at the Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT) in Jammu, he honored former Vice-Chancellor Dr Masud Ahmed Choudhary on his third death anniversary, noting his vision for educational advancement.
“The nomadic lifestyle of the Gujjar-Bakerwal community makes them particularly susceptible to climate change,” Omar Abdullah added. By channeling local talent into climate research, the community can bolster its resilience against environmental challenges.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of strengthening educational frameworks, including Gujjar hostels and mobile schools to uplift the educational standards within the community. A thorough assessment of the impact of reservation policies was also underscored, as data-driven evaluations remain sparse.
Former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah reiterated the necessity of unity and prioritizing education within the Gujjar community to ensure a secure future for the generations to come. The event attracted numerous officials, including ministers, MLAs, past ministers, and civil society representatives, showcasing a collective commitment towards progressive dialogue and action.
