Government Initiatives to Expedite Road Projects in Jammu and Kashmir
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary announced on Wednesday that the government is committed to accelerating forest clearance to facilitate the speedy implementation of road projects in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that cases would be promptly taken up with relevant agencies to ensure smooth execution of road network projects.
Choudhary highlighted that the funding pattern for the PMGSY IV construction in J&K involves 90 percent financing from the Centre and 10 percent from the Union Territory. He made these statements in response to a query raised by Legislator Payare Lal Sharma in the Legislative Assembly.
Regarding the land compensation for road construction under PMGSY IV, the Deputy Chief Minister clarified that the UT government is responsible for providing unobstructed land for the projects, including compensation for land acquisition. Supplementary questions on the topic were raised by Legislators Nazir Ahmad Khan and Balwant Singh Mankotia.
Combatting Adulteration in Rice Markets Across Jammu and Kashmir
Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo informed the House about ongoing market inspections and rice sampling efforts by the Health department across Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar, to prevent the sale of adulterated rice. During the 2025-26 fiscal year, 121 rice samples were analyzed, with 110 test reports received so far. Seven samples were identified as ‘Not of Standard Quality (NSQ)’, leading to legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Itoo emphasized the importance of regular market inspections and rice sampling to ensure food safety standards are met. She highlighted specific cases where rice samples were found to have inadequate Folic Acid content or excessive Chalky kernels, in violation of FSSA regulations.
Update on 4th Tawi Bridge Construction
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary clarified that no formal inquiry has been initiated against the Executing Agency responsible for the construction of the 4th Tawi Bridge, based on reports from the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Chief Engineer Public (R&B) Department Zone, Jammu, and Managing Director, JKPCC Limited. Despite damage to the bridge approaches during recent floods in Jammu, the main structure remained intact.
Choudhary detailed the history of the 4th Tawi Bridge project, highlighting its completion in 2013 by the contractor M/S S.P Shingla Construction Private Limited. He reiterated that the bridge withstood subsequent floods in 2014 without sustaining damage to its components.
Efforts to Control Air Pollution in Khrew and Khonmoh Areas
Minister for Forest, Ecology, Environment Javed Ahmed Rana outlined the government’s measures to address air pollution in Khrew and Khonmoh areas of Pulwama. Cement industries in the region have been directed to install Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems for real-time monitoring. Additionally, cement plants are advised to implement advanced emission control devices to minimize pollution.
Rana highlighted the imposition of a moratorium on new polluting units in the area until air quality standards improve. The J&K Pollution Control Committee is actively monitoring industrial activities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Investment in Sports Infrastructure in Chanpora Constituency
Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma disclosed that Rs 71.183 lakh has been allocated for the development and maintenance of sports infrastructure in Chanpora Constituency during the 2025-26 period. Various projects, including the construction of a volleyball court and fencing, are underway to enhance sports facilities in the region.
Sharma detailed the utilization of allocated funds for specific sports infrastructure projects, emphasizing the importance of promoting sports and recreational activities in the constituency.
Restoration of Larnoo Bridge in Kokernag Constituency
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary provided an update on the ongoing restoration work at Larnoo Bridge in Kokernag constituency, Anantnag district. The R&B department is undertaking works worth Rs. 2 crore to permanently restore the bridge, which suffered partial damage during floods in 2025.
Choudhary assured that the restoration efforts aim to ensure the safety and functionality of the bridge for the benefit of local residents and commuters. He underscored the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and maintenance in the region.
Prioritizing Academic Excellence and Resource Utilization in Government Degree Colleges
Minister for Education Sakeena Itoo highlighted the government’s focus on enhancing overall enrollment, academic offerings, and resource utilization in Government Degree Colleges across Jammu and Kashmir. She emphasized the ongoing projects aimed at improving infrastructure and academic facilities in colleges, including H.K Government Degree College (GDC) Bandipora.
Itoo addressed concerns regarding the establishment of a separate women’s college in Bandipora, emphasizing the need to consolidate enrollment in existing institutions. She detailed the ongoing and upcoming projects at H.K GDC Bandipora, underscoring the government’s commitment to providing quality education and infrastructure.
Initiatives to Strengthen Economic Resilience of Industrial Units in Jammu and Kashmir
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary outlined the government’s initiatives to support industrial units, MSMEs, artisans, weavers, and farmers in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted various schemes and policies aimed at improving cash flow, addressing financial stress, and enhancing economic resilience among different sectors.
Chaudhary detailed the specific measures taken to support MSMEs, artisans, weavers, and farmers, including access to finance, incentives, and targeted schemes. He underscored the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable industrial development and providing necessary support to facilitate growth and resilience in the region.
