Manohar takes stock of people’s grievances

Excelsior Correspondent

KATHUA, Feb 12: Minister of State for Fisheries, Cooperatives, Finance and Planning, Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma, convened a public grievance camp at Billawar.
The people of the area projected various demands and problems of their respective areas related to supply of power and drinking water, road connectivity, healthcare, education etc.
The Minister directed the concerned officers to look into all the issues raised by the people in the camp and initiate necessary action for redressal of the same.
Sharma, while addressing the gathering, said Government is committed to strengthen the Panchayat infrastructure besides empowering PRIs. He informed that Government will provide Rs 20 lakh for the construction of new Panchayat Ghars in 17 Panchayats of tehsil Billawar. He added that funds will also be provided to renovate the existing Panchayat Ghar buildings.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister asked the officers to work with honesty and dedication and come up to the expectations of the people. He also directed the authorities to ensure use of quality material in development works.
Responding to the demand of repair of defunct hand pumps, Minister instructed the PHE Department to repair the same at the earliest. He said that more hand pumps will be installed in the area to meet the drinking water needs of the people. He also assured that the vacant posts in various schools will be filled up shortly.
Dr Sharma announced that a 5-day Billawar Baisakhi Mela will be celebrated from this year and directed the administration to make all necessary arrangements for the event.
The Minister also distributed cheques of Rs. 10,000 each among five widows under Family Benefits Scheme.