Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh held a significant public durbar in Chenani, Udhampur today, interacting with Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and local startups. The event underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance rural livelihoods and healthcare access in the region.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Singh emphasized the pivotal role of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) in empowering women SHGs to become self-reliant and create employment opportunities for others. “The women engaged through this mission have not only achieved atmanirbharta (self-reliance) but are also transforming their communities by providing employment to others,” he stated. He praised the “LAKHPATIDIDs” – women earning a sustainable income and serving as role models, highlighting that these efforts are set to transform the rural economy.
Dr. Singh also discussed the rapid infrastructure development within the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda Lok Sabha constituency, citing the construction of roads under PMGSY and new highways aimed at improving connectivity in remote areas. He mentioned the upcoming National Highway from Lakhanpur-Bani-Basohli-Doda, which will enhance ease of travel, along with the Goha-Khellani-Khannabal National Highway providing an alternative transport route.
In a major healthcare initiative, Dr. Singh flagged off the “Aarogya Doctor on Wheels” ambulance service, a mobile telemedicine unit designed to bring free healthcare services to the doorsteps of residents in remote villages. The service allows patients to communicate with doctors in their native language, and the entire consultation process, including the issuance of prescriptions, is completed within 45 minutes. Dr. Singh urged for more CSR contributions to expand this innovative healthcare startup, ensuring wider accessibility.
During the public durbar, Dr. Singh addressed numerous grievances and demands from local citizens, directing district officers to resolve issues promptly. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing public concerns efficiently, highlighting the importance of such interactions in resolving issues on the spot.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Singh visited stalls showcasing products made under the DAY-NRLM and participated in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative by planting a sapling on the premises of Government Higher Secondary School, Chenani.
