Union Minister Reaffirms Revival of Village Defence Guards to Combat Terrorism
Addressing a public rally before hosting a three-hour long "Public Durbar", Union Minister Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the revival of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) to bolster local security in response to recent terror incidents. The strategy to control the security situation in district Doda and its surroundings is being withheld from public discussion.
Jitendra Singh mentioned that VDGs are being revived in terrorism-prone areas to empower locals against terrorist threats. The government plans to deploy VDGs as needed and may equip them with SLR rifles to enhance their effectiveness.
The minister appealed to all communities to unite against terrorism, recalling how Doda resisted terrorist pressures in the 1990s without succumbing to forced migrations. He praised the community's resilience during that period.
On infrastructure, Jitendra Singh highlighted significant developments in Doda, including a new network of highways improving connectivity and reducing travel time, which also opens up job opportunities and boosts tourism. The strategic Lakhanpur-Basohli-Bani-Bhaderwah-Doda National Highway, once completed, will shorten the route by over 100 kilometers. Additionally, the all-weather Khellani Tunnel will decrease travel time to Srinagar and Jammu for the residents of Doda and Kishtwar.
The minister outlined the central government's commitment to equitable development across Jammu and Kashmir, addressing past infrastructural delays and emphasizing completed projects under the Modi government. He noted that the government's efforts, including the provision of LPG connections and houses under PM AWAS, do not discriminate based on caste, creed, or religion, reflecting the policy of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas.'
Jitendra Singh also stressed the importance of raising awareness about government welfare schemes, suggesting workshops to educate youth and their families on these benefits.
The "Public Durbar" was attended by Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh and other local officials to directly address public grievances. During this session, Jitendra Singh listened to the community's concerns and instructed the local administration to ensure swift, effective resolution of these issues to enhance public service delivery.