J&K must harness full hydropower potential: Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the progress of development projects in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, highlighting the need to utilise the full potential of hydropower projects in the Union Territory.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Lok Bhawan, Shah said under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Centre is firmly committed to the vision of building a developed and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting continued for nearly two hours and was attended by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Chief Secretary of the Union Territory Atal Dulloo and Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat, among others, officials said.
"Due to the continuous and dedicated efforts of the Modi Government to accelerate development, the development projects in Jammu and Kashmir have made unprecedented progress. Jammu and Kashmir needs to develop the full potential of its hydropower projects," the home minister said.
Shah arrived here late on Thursday evening and kicked off his two-day visit to the region by touring the forward outposts of the Border Security Force (BSF) at Gurnam and Bobiyian along the International Border in Kathua district on Friday.
On his return from Kathua, he chaired a security review meeting, which, among others, was attended by Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi, with a focus on freeing Jammu and Kashmir from terrorism.
During the meeting on projects, Shah undertook a comprehensive review of key sectors, such as road infrastructure, power, industry, tourism, 4G and optical-fibre connectivity.
He said a special focus should be laid on achieving 100 per cent saturation of the Government's welfare schemes and ensuring that the benefits of all development projects reach the intended beneficiaries.
The home minister stressed the importance of developing sports infrastructure and setting up sports academies to connect youngsters with development.
"In this regard, efforts will be made to secure an investment of about Rs 200 crore by engaging with various sports bodies," he said.
