Minister allots 100 kanals for Gujjar hostel in Anantnag

After assuming office, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Sunday announced 100 kanals for Gujjar hostel which would be made available by the administration in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

A spokesperson said Rana today visited Anantnag district to get first-hand appraisal of the functioning of Gujjar and Pahari hostels in the district.

The minister was accompanied by Members of Legislative Assembly Reyaz Ahmad Khan, Altaf Ahmad Wani, Zafar Ali Khatana and Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri. During the visit, Rana interacted with tribal students and patiently listened to their concerns and issues.

The spokesperson said the minister on the occasion also had a brief meeting with senior officers of the district administration where he “advised them to ensure participation of local residents in planning and development activities.”

He instructed them to be alert and proactive towards people’s expectations and ensure efficient delivery of all government services.

The minister also called upon the district administration to upgrade infrastructure and basic facilities along with immediate repair and renovation of a damaged building due to recent fire mishap.

The minister also announced that the existing Pahari hostel would be shifted to a new well-furnished building. During the visit, the minister was also informed that the proposal for construction of Pahari hostel is already in advanced stage.

While interacting with delegations, Javed Rana highlighted that the Omar Abdullah-led government is committed towards addressing the demands of tribal communities.

“Empowering our tribal population is our priority and continuing legacy of our founder Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah and our government is committed to uplift the unprivileged and downtrodden communities,” he said, adding that we would ensure all necessary funds are released in consultation with the ministries of the Union Government.