Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 18: Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Raman Bhalla described Maharishi Valmikiji as a great spiritual ambassador, adding that he authored the sacred epic Ramayana, which sets out the path of ideal and virtuous living.
The Minister was addressing a large gathering in connection with ‘Valmiki Parkat Diwas’ celebration function held at Valmiki Colony, here today.
Bhalla underlined the commitment of the Government for the overall welfare of the oppressed sections of society in line with the philosophy of Maharishi Valmiki so as to create equitable and harmonious society. He said that the Government has taken various initiatives to ameliorate the lot downtrodden and weaker section.
The Minister claimed that the State Government has been taking greater care of the people belonging to this oppressed section of society and thrust has been laid on ensuring high standard of living of these sections of society.
Elaborating the steps taken by the Government to preserve and maintain religious places of historic background, Mr. Bhalla stated that the special focus has been laid on development of the religious places associated with great gurus and saints.
The Minister said that the Coalition Government was committed to provide all civic amenities to downtrodden people of the State.
He said that UPA Government, headed by Dr. Manmohan Singh has launched prestigious MGNREGA scheme for guaranteeing 100-day job to landless and marginal farmers of the rural areas. He said that under Indira Awas Yojna scheme, the Government is providing financial assistance to weaker sections for construction of low cost houses and Rs.9000 for toilet units on subsidy.
Bhalla said Government has provided Rs 2.75 lakh under Basic Services to Urban Poor State Subject lot for construction of pacca houses besides basic amenities to slum dwellers under Rajiv Awas Yojana including pacca units. He called upon the poor lot to approach the concerned authorities and avail the benefits of such schemes.
The Minister informed that Centre has released Rs. 2.63 crore under Rajiv Awas Yojna (RAY) for upgradation and improvement of basic amenities in slum basties of the State, adding that in this regard the necessary instructions have been issued to the concerned executing agency for taking up the necessary developmental works at these basties.
The Minister said under BSUP, Rs 19 crore one-room accommodation flat including toilet and kitchen facilities are nearing completion at Sunjwan for poor urban lot of city, adding that the accommodation would be provided to them after formal inauguration shortly.
Later, the Minister also paid obeisance in the temple of Maharishi Valmiki ji at Valmiki Colony in Gandhi Nagar and prayed for peace and prosperity of the State.
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