Govt committed to security, development of J&K: MoS Home - Greater Kashmir

New Delhi, Dec 6: Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai Wednesday emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to both security and development in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Rai said to combat terrorism, the Government of India (GoI) has adopted a policy of zero tolerance.

“Focused on dismantling the terror ecosystem, the government has bolstered security measures to ensure lasting peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Key strategies include round-the-clock nakas at strategic points, static guards for group security, intensified Cordon and Search Operations (CASO), and real-time intelligence sharing among security forces,” he said.

TERROR INCIDENTS ON DECLINE

The minister said that these proactive measures have yielded significant results, reflected in a substantial decline in terror incidents over the years.

He also said that J&K is witnessing unprecedented development issues as the government is actively engaged in comprehensive development initiatives in J&K, aiming to uplift the region across various sectors.
Rai said J&K is experiencing a transformative phase marked by substantial infrastructure development and economic growth.

“With 53 projects underway at a cost of Rs 58,477 crores, significant strides have been made in key sectors. In health and education, the operationalisation of seven new Government Medical Colleges, adding 800 MBBS seats, AIIMS Jammu is now operational, and work on AIIMS Kashmir is progressing, establishment of IIT Jammu, IIM Jammu, and 50 new degree colleges has taken place,” he said.

The minister said that in economic growth and export boost the industrial sector attracted investments of Rs 2153.45 crore in 2022-23 and Rs 2079.76 crore in the current fiscal year (up to October 2023).

He said that the handloom and handicraft exports doubled from Rs 563 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 1116.37 crore in 2022-23.

On tourism, Rai said record tourism growth was witnessed, with 1.88 crore tourists in 2022 and 1.85 crore arrivals until October 23 2023.

“Also, J&K’s saffron received GI Tagging, promoting its uniqueness nationally and internationally,” he said.

Regarding social welfare and employment, the minister said various scholarship schemes experience a substantial increase in coverage.

“Over 31,830 selections finalised for gazetted and non-gazetted posts since 2019. 7.4 lakh self-employment and livelihood opportunities were generated from 2021-22. Over 62 lakh youth participated in sports activities in 2022-23, with more than 5 lakh associated with Mission Youth, receiving the PM Award for Innovation,” he said.

Rai said that several digital initiatives had taken place with the implementation of various IT initiatives for providing G2C online services and ensuring transparency and accessibility.

He said that in the industrial development sector, schemes, and policies to boost industrial development, with an investment of Rs 5319.35 crore from 2019-20 to 2023-24 had taken place.