Srinagar: At the launch of PMGSY-IV (Batch-II) at SKICC Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday described Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a “true friend and well-wisher” of Jammu and Kashmir, even referring to him as “mama”, a popular public tag associated with the Madhya Pradesh leader.
Addressing the gathering, Omar said the affection people show towards Chouhan reflects the trust he has earned through his work for Jammu and Kashmir. He said the government would not rush to place fresh demands but would first deliver on what has already been sanctioned.
“I feel a little hesitant to keep asking again and again. Our senior colleagues and a minister have already put forward their demands. Whatever has been sanctioned for us, we will start work on it immediately,” he said.
The Chief Minister assured that in the coming months, all approved works under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana will be taken up on priority.
“You have given us sanctions; it is our responsibility to match that with delivery. We will ensure that work starts quickly and is completed efficiently,” he said, adding that further proposals would be taken up once visible progress is achieved.
Highlighting the impact of rural connectivity, Omar said roads have transformed life in far-flung and mountainous areas. “There was a time when people had to walk four to five hours to reach a road. Today, connectivity has reached many such areas. Children can go to school easily, patients can reach hospitals in time, and daily life has become less difficult,” he said.
He stressed that connecting the remaining habitations—especially those in scattered and hilly terrain—remains a key responsibility. “Even two houses can be separated by long distances in our region. Connecting such areas is not easy, but it is essential,” he said, adding that while cities are visible, the real strength of Jammu and Kashmir lies in its villages.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the government is working to strengthen the rural economy through connectivity, agriculture and allied sectors, including initiatives like the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme.
Turning to the challenges faced by farmers, Omar said erratic weather continues to cause heavy losses to agriculture and horticulture sectors. “Sometimes there is no rain, sometimes there is excessive rainfall, sometimes strong winds or hailstorms damage crops. Farmers are left uncertain about how to deal with these situations, and their livelihoods are often devastated,” he said.
He stressed the importance of crop insurance, announcing that the government has introduced an insurance scheme for horticulture growers in the current budget to cushion weather-related losses.
“We have taken an important step by bringing in an insurance scheme for growers so that the damage they suffer due to weather can be reduced to some extent,” he said.
Omar also highlighted efforts under rural development and self-help group initiatives, saying the government aims to financially empower women. “We want to see our women becoming financially strong—even millionaires—under our mission. What I have seen in them is courage and determination. They do not want handouts; they want opportunities. Strengthen their hands and give them a chance, and they will show how far they can go,” he said.
He credited support received under national rural livelihood missions and other schemes, assuring that all assistance extended by the Centre would be utilised effectively. Referring to the broader development vision, he said the government is working towards the goal of a “developed India and developed Jammu and Kashmir.”
“I assure you that whatever schemes you give us, we will implement them properly and work together to transform the future of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. The Chief Minister also referred to the substantial investment under PMGSY phases, noting that allocations running into thousands of crores are significant. “I assure you that every rupee will be used properly to change lives in every corner and every household,” he said.
Reiterating his commitment, Omar said the government will ensure that development reaches the grassroots and improves living conditions across the Union Territory. “We will not rest until we see real change on the ground,” he added.
