Excelsior Correspondent
NAGROTA, Nov 29: Saying that politics can wait but not the development, Provincial President National Conference Mr Devender Singh Rana today reiterated that a multi-pronged strategy would be devised for integrated and holistic development of Nagrota as a model township in the vicinity of the capital city of Jammu.
‘Single sector programmes may not be sufficient for achieving the objective”, he said while addressing election meetings at Batlalehad, Kathar and Bantalab., adding that the challenge calls for multi-pronged approach for roads, buildings, health, education, rural development sectors.
“The development plank of Nagrota will be a blend of rural and urban development with focus on creating a hub for commercial and residential activity. The focus has to be creating a township on modern lines that will be rage of the busiest city of Jammu-the most sought after destination of the pilgrim, adventure and traditional tourism, as Nagrota is almost nerve centre of the holy township of Katra, scenic Kashmir and moonland of Ladakh.
Mr Rana wondered as to why the potential of Nagrota could not be harnessed over the years, especially in view of fast expanding city. While enumerating several reasons for delay, he said the time has come when the local opinion leaders will have to take a conscious decision of taking forward the mission of converting the area as Nava Jammu.
“People won’t find me dithering in this resolve”, he pledged and detailed the measures required for achieving the objective. He said the task is gigantic but expressed optimism of realising it at the strength of firm will and determination of the people,
Mr Rana, who is contesting from the constituency as National Conference candidate, said the people were clear about the mission they have chalked out for themselves and the day is not far when the vision will be translated into reality.
The Provincial President exhorted the people to remain steadfast in their approach and not allow the elements inimical to development and progress of Nagrota create obstacles by playing politics. “Politics can always wait but not the development”, he said adding that we owe to the coming generations a life with facilities as a matter of right. He said development can’t be replaced by emotive slogans which may satiate the whims of some but jeopradise the legitimate urges of majority who want to lead comfortable life.
Mr Rana said he has endeavoured over the years to fulfil the developmental needs of the area and people were best judges to adjuge the performance on ground. “At the strength of our efforts and the initiatives taken by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, we are certainly optimistic about retaining the trust of the people”, he maintained.
On the occasion, local BJP workers including Shiv Ram, Isher Dass, Darshan Kumar, Krishan Lal, Som Raj, Capt Mohan Lal, Ram Sharma, Gian Chand, Baldev Singh, Rajinder Singh, Parkash Chand joined National Conference. The Provincial President welcomed them in the party fold and expressed the hope that this will further strengthen the mass movement at the grass roots level.
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