Meta Description: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces government plans to provide housing for 5 lakh people in J&K under a new scheme.
Rewritten News in UK English:
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Thursday, revealed that the central government has identified approximately five lakh people in Jammu and Kashmir who lack permanent homes. Efforts are underway to provide them with housing under a government scheme.
Speaking at a press conference in Srinagar, the minister, according to news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), stated that the Prime Minister has decided to offer permanent shelter to those still without homes. “A survey has been carried out to identify the beneficiaries, and once the verification process is complete, the housing allotment will begin. Verification is crucial to ensure no ineligible individuals are included,” Chouhan said.
He further emphasised that work would begin to ensure every eligible individual in the region receives permanent housing. The minister also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) to tackle rural poverty, especially among women. “Through self-help groups, the government aims to raise the annual income of women to over Rs 1 lakh under the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme.”
Chouhan also pointed out that the scheme is making significant progress in Jammu and Kashmir, with many women already achieving Lakhpati status. Additionally, he introduced a new category, “Millennial Didi,” for women whose annual income has reached Rs 10 lakh.
A booklet featuring the success stories of such women was also released during the event.
On the topic of employment, Chouhan acknowledged some challenges faced by rural job schemes like MGNREGA, but assured that steps were being taken to resolve these issues. He mentioned that targets had been set for workers under MGNREGA this year, with implementation already underway in the region.
“The government is also focusing on skilled youth for employment opportunities, and new educational initiatives will be introduced. Efforts are also being made to connect more farmers to the Kisan Credit Card scheme,” he added.
Chouhan noted that various issues were discussed during his visit, and steps are being taken to enhance the implementation of central schemes. “As per the Prime Minister’s directive, we are committed to ensuring the full development of Jammu and Kashmir,” he concluded—(KNO).
