Srinagar, Aug 21: Union Minister for Rural Development Jairam Ramesh Sunday evening called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah here.
 An official spokesman said the duo discussed matters related to the establishment of Panchayat system, empowerment to Panchayats and progress of centrally-sponsored schemes in rural development sector.
 Underlining the importance of efficient rural road communication in a hilly state like Jammu and Kashmir, Omar said to link up 1400 habitations hitherto left-out from the PMGSY, the state requires a central assistance of Rs. 700 crores. He sought financial support from the Union Minister in getting the proposals of the state cleared on fast-track basis. 
 Omar said the economy and development of the rural, far-flung and remote areas is directly dependent on good road communication. “While the state government is focusing on improvement, up-gradation and construction of highways and roads across the state, the PMGSY is the flagship programme to link up cut-off areas with main roads,” he said, highlighting the importance of the programme in this regard.
 Jairam said his Ministry would do everything possible in getting funds released for Jammu and Kashmir under PMGSY. “My Ministry is rolling out an ambitious programme ‘Himayat’ in the state in December this year where which one lakh youth would be provided training for enhancing their employability,” he said, assuring their absorption in private job market within five years.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 21 Aug 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 21 Aug 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 IST