‘Jammu faced neglect of decades but not anymore‘
Jammu,TDD,Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) today passionately advocated the development and integration of regions like Jammu, which have historically faced systemic challenges and political neglect.
His vision aligns with the broader national commitment to ensuring balanced and inclusive growth across the country, leaving no region behind in India’s journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse. Jammu, with its immense potential and strategic location, stands at the cusp of a transformative era, ready to emerge as a pivotal contributor to India’s progress.
“For decades, Jammu grappled with underdevelopment, lack of adequate infrastructure, and limited opportunities, compounded by a history of political marginalization. This stifled its growth and denied its people access to the prosperity and progress experienced by other parts of the country,” he said addressing a function in Jammu. Dr. Singh has consistently emphasized that these past grievances must no longer define the region’s future. “Now is the time for Jammu to seize the moment, harness its potential, and rise to its rightful place in the national growth story,” he said.
The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has launched an array of initiatives aimed at reversing Jammu’s decades-long developmental backlog. Significant investments are being made in modernizing infrastructure, with ambitious projects such as the construction of world-class highways, rail networks like the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, and the expansion of Jammu Airport. These efforts are not only improving connectivity but also opening up new avenues for trade, tourism, and investment, making Jammu a more attractive destination for both businesses and visitors.
In healthcare, institutions such as the upcoming AIIMS in Jammu and upgraded medical colleges are revolutionizing the region’s access to quality health services. Education, another critical sector, is receiving renewed attention with the establishment of premier institutions and skill development centers, ensuring that the youth are equipped to compete in a globalized economy. Additionally, the government’s push to develop Jammu as an industrial hub, coupled with incentives for entrepreneurs, is creating new jobs and fostering economic self-reliance.
Tourism, long one of Jammu’s strengths, is being revitalized with a focus on showcasing its natural beauty, heritage sites, and spiritual destinations. Pilgrimage tourism, centered around Vaishno Devi and other revered sites, is receiving infrastructural and logistical support to enhance the experience for millions of devotees annually. Parallelly, efforts are underway to promote agro-industries, leveraging Jammu’s agricultural strengths and empowering local farmers with modern techniques and market access.
Dr. Singh’s emphasis on self-reliance and inclusivity extends to the grassroots, ensuring that development is not confined to urban centers but reaches every corner of Jammu. His call to “rise to the occasion” is an appeal to both the citizens of Jammu and the nation at large to recognize and act upon the region’s unique potential. It is a clarion call to overcome historical grievances, embrace progress, and work collectively to build a future defined by growth, opportunity, and shared prosperity.
As Jammu steps into this new chapter, its transformation will serve as a shining example of how targeted policies, visionary leadership, and collective effort can rewrite the narrative of historically underserved regions. By integrating Jammu into India’s mainstream growth trajectory, the region is not only reclaiming its rightful place but also contributing significantly to the nation’s march toward becoming a global leader. The rise of Jammu is not just a regional story; it is a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and unity in driving a nation forward.(TDD)
