KATHUA, Jun 18 : Continuing his outreach programme across his parliamentary constituency as part of the celebrations marking 12 years of the Narendra Modi-led Government at the Centre, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh today addressed a public gathering near Khilochak Pond falling under Jastora Assembly constituency in Kathua district.
On the occasion, the Minister announced that Kathua will soon be connected through Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Express Corridor, substantially enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic activities. He also informed that a gas pipeline project for the district is on the anvil, and is expected to be implemented shortly, providing cleaner and more efficient energy access to residents and industries.
Dr Jitendra Singh stated that the tender for the proposed North India’s first Homeopathy College in the district has already been floated. He added that the foundation stone for the institution will take place soon.
In another important development, Dr Jitendra Singh informed that the process of transferring land for the proposed Arun jaitley Stadium in Hiranagar is currently underway. The stadium will provide modern facilities to aspiring athletes and promote sporting culture in the area.
Highlighting the development initiatives undertaken during the last 12 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Minister stated that a new culture of transparent, accountable and development-oriented governance has emerged across the country. He said the government has worked with the principle of inclusive development, ensuring that welfare schemes reach every citizen irrespective of caste, religion or region. Flagship initiatives such as the Pradhan MantriUjjwalaYojana have benefited millions of households, particularly women, by providing clean cooking fuel, financial support and improving their quality of life, he added. He said the financial assistance under the PM SVANidhi Scheme has enabled street vendors to access affordable credit and strengthen their livelihoods. Similarly, loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana have encouraged entrepreneurship and self-employment among lakhs of beneficiaries across the country, he added.
Highlighting the transformational journey of Kathua over the past 12 years, Dr Jitendra Singh stated that the district has evolved from a neglected border town into a major centre of industrial growth, healthcare, education, innovation and connectivity in Jammu & Kashmir. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kathua has witnessed unprecedented development across multiple sectors, creating new opportunities for residents, and strengthening the district’s role as a key growth hub in the region.
Enumerating the major achievements in the district, Dr Singh said the installation of Maharaja Gulab Singh’s statue, establishment of a Passport Office and setting up of Engineering and Medical Colleges has significantly expanded access to higher education and professional training. He also highlighted the setting up of North India’s first Seed Processing Plant, a Biotechnology Industrial Park and a Homeopathic Medical College, which have collectively strengthened Kathua’s educational and research ecosystem.
Speaking on healthcare infrastructure, Dr Singh noted that the Government Medical College has transformed medical services in the district by improving access to quality healthcare and reducing the need for patients to travel outside the region for advanced treatment.
Dr Jitendra Singh also referred to strategic projects such as the ShahpurKandi Project, whose foundation stone had been laid by a former Prime Minister but remained pending for decades before being expedited under the present government. He further highlighted the importance of the Ujh Multipurpose Project and the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, which are expected to transform connectivity, irrigation and economic growth in the region.
The Union Minister announced that the proposed ArunJaitley Stadium at Hiranagar is moving forward, with additional land being transferred for the project. He also underscored the introduction of two Vande Bharat Express trains in Jammu & Kashmir, describing them as a landmark step towards modern transportation and enhanced connectivity for the people of the Union Territory.
MLA Jasrota Rajiv Jasrotia, MLA, Kathua, Dr. Bharat Bhushan, DDC, Vice Chairperson, Raghunandan Singh , BJP President Updesh Andotra, Prem Nath Dogra, Ronnie Sharma, Manjeet Jasrotia, Nandan Khajuria were among those present on the occasion.
BJP Mahila Morcha holds healthy cooking workshop, promotes PM Modi’s call for reduced edible oil consumption
JAMMU, Jun 18: As part of the nationwide campaign commemorating 12 years of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government under the theme “Vikas, Vishwas aur Jan Kalyan,” BJP Mahila Morcha Jammu District organized an awareness workshop at the BJP Headquarters, Kachi Chawni, Jammu, to promote healthy cooking practices and encourage reduced consumption of edible oil.
The programme was conducted under the leadership of District President Anuradha Sharma and was attended by BJP J&K Vice President and former Minister Priya Sethi, BJP Mahila Morcha Vice President and Jammu District Prabhari Prerna Nanda, Seh Prabhari Shalu Gupta, District Prabhari Asha Gupta, and a large number of Mahila Morcha activists from across Jammu district.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from women members who prepared and showcased a variety of nutritious and innovative dishes made using minimal or no edible oil. Participants exchanged ideas on healthy cooking methods, balanced diets and lifestyle changes that can help prevent lifestyle-related diseases.
Addressing the gathering, Priya Sethi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized preventive healthcare and healthy living as essential components of a developed India. She said that dietary habits play a crucial role in determining the health and well-being of families and society.
“Good health begins in the kitchen. Mothers and women have a pivotal role in shaping the eating habits of families. By reducing excessive oil consumption and promoting nutritious food, we can significantly contribute to building a healthier society,” Priya Sethi said.
She added that the Prime Minister’s appeal to reduce edible oil consumption is not merely a health advisory but a social movement aimed at reducing the growing burden of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other lifestyle disorders.
“Today, health awareness is as important as economic development. A healthy citizen is the foundation of a strong nation. We must adopt balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and mindful eating habits to ensure a better future for our children,” she said.
Priya Sethi also lauded the efforts of BJP Mahila Morcha for taking the message of healthy living to the grassroots level and involving women in public awareness campaigns.
She urged participants to become ambassadors of health awareness and spread the message of nutritious eating and healthy lifestyles in every household.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by the participants to promote healthy cooking practices and support the nationwide campaign for a healthier and fitter India.
Prof. (Dr.) Attri assumes charge as HoD Surgery, GMC Srinagar
SRINAGAR, Jun 18: Prof. (Dr.) M. R. Attri, one of India’s distinguished surgeons, academicians, and pioneers in minimally invasive surgery, has assumed charge as the Head of the Department of Surgery at Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar.
With an illustrious career spanning more than 35 years, Prof. Attri has made significant contributions to patient care, surgical education, research, and innovation. A highly accomplished Advanced Laparoscopic and Hernia Surgeon, he has been honoured with prestigious awards, including recognition as one of the leading laparoscopic surgeons by the Government of India and various national surgical organizations.
Prof. Attri has served as a teacher, mentor, examiner, and academic leader for generations of undergraduate and postgraduate students. He has been invited as an examiner by numerous universities across the country and has played a pivotal role in shaping surgical education and training standards.
A prolific researcher, Prof. Attri has authored over 100 publications in reputed national and international peer-reviewed journals. His scientific work has earned several awards for best paper presentations and research contributions at national and international surgical conferences. He has also delivered numerous keynote lectures, orations, and invited talks at prestigious academic forums worldwide.
In addition to his clinical and academic accomplishments, Prof. Attri has successfully organized and led several national and international conferences, workshops, and continuing medical education programmes focusing on Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, Hernia Surgery, Gastrointestinal Surgery, Surgical Oncology, and the emerging role of Artificial Intelligence in Surgery. His efforts have contributed significantly to promoting innovation, skill enhancement, and evidence-based surgical practice in India.
Prof. Attri has held executive and leadership positions in several national and international surgical organizations and professional bodies, where he has actively contributed to policy formulation, academic advancement, and the dissemination of modern surgical techniques.
Outlining his vision for the Department of Surgery, GMC Srinagar, Prof. Attri emphasized strengthening the department’s role as a centre of excellence in patient care, education, research, and innovation.
“Our focus will be on advancing minimally invasive and robotic surgical services, strengthening subspecialty surgical care, enhancing resident training, promoting impactful clinical research, and integrating emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, into surgical practice and education. We aspire to position GMC Srinagar among the leading surgical centres of excellence in the country,” he stated.
He further stressed the importance of ethical medical practice, multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based surgery, faculty development, and nurturing future surgical leaders through mentorship and academic excellence.
Faculty members, residents, students, and staff of GMC Srinagar have welcomed Prof. Attri’s appointment and expressed confidence that under his dynamic leadership, the Department of Surgery will achieve new milestones in clinical excellence, academic distinction, and research innovation, benefiting both the institution and the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
PCC condoles demise of Fatima Begum of Kishtwar
JAMMU, Jun 18: JKPCC has deeply condoled the sudden demise of Fatima Begu, wife of Abdul Gani Sheikh of Kishtwar Town and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family.
Expressing grief and shock over her demise JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra said that Fatima Begum was a very humble and passionate person. Fatima Begum was sister of Senior congress leader Ghulam Haider Sheikh. He prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear the loss.
Several senior congress leaders including former PCC Working President Raman Bhalla, Ch. Lal Singh EX-MP, Ravinder Sharma- Chief Spokesperson, Sr. Congress leaders Ved Mahajan, Th. Balbir Singh, Iqbal Dar, Virinder Manhas, Bhavishya Sudan, Rajvir Singh and Vijayant Pathania have conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family.