Explore possibility for mini Hydel and solar projects: Dr Farooq

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Karewa-Shadab village to be developed as model village

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar, today held public meeting at Karewa-Shadab, Shopian. On the occasion, cheques worth Rs. 105 lakh were distributed under IAY scheme were distributed among 400 beneficiaries.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Farooq said renewable sources like hydro power and sunlight need to be utilized for energy especially in backward areas which face power shortage. Dr. Farooq asked the district administration to explore the possibilities of establishing mini-hydel projects and identify areas for installing solar panels and come up with a detailed project report as early as possible so that his ministry at the centre can take the required steps to help the people.

Responding to the water shortage problem faced by the area, Dr. Farooq said that measures initiated by the government should be speeded up. He asked the people to pray earnestly for plenty of rain and snow in the coming months so that streams and rivers are filled with water. Dr. Farooq said that the area presents a panoramic view and could be developed as a good tourist destination. He said efforts be made to make the Mughal road motorable throughout the year through provisions like tunnels.

He said on-spot police recruitment drive should be initiated in the backward areas so that employment is provided to the youth residing in these areas and also asked the people to monitor ongoing schemes and report to the concerned administrative units of any misgivings.

Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar, on the occasion, reiterated the government’s commitment to develop Karewa-Shadab as a model village and said that the promises made be the chief minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah, during his visit are being fulfilled in letter and spirit.

Mr. Sagar said that it is the endeavor of government to provide good roads, drinking water and medicare facilities to areas lacking such infrastructure. He said on 5th of December, the government will be announcing an employment policy that will go a long way in solving the un-employment problem to a large extent. He asked the people to avail benefits of NREGA scheme and said that state government was successful in enhancing the daily-wages under the scheme from Rs. 70 to Rs. 110 and will do its best to further increase it to Rs. 150 so that people in rural areas get benefitted and have an assured source of income.

Those present on the occasion included MLC Shopian, Mr. Showkat Hussain Ganai, Director Rural Development, Kashmir, Mrs. Dilshada Khan and senior dignitaries besides administrative officers of the district.