The country's 70th Independence Day was today celebrated with traditional fervour and gaiety across Jammu region as functions were held at all district, sub-division and tehsil headquarters.
A large number of people including women and children turned up at the venues to participate in the national event.
Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh who hoisted the national flag at Mini Stadium Parade Ground here - the venue for the main Independence Day function in Jammu region - rolled out the contours of comprehensive development plan envisaging series of initiatives to accelerate the state's economic growth by creation of dependable infrastructure in core areas and employment generation in private and public sectors.
In his 18-minute speech, Singh touched a range of issues including targets set for achieving self-sufficiency in electricity generation, improvement of economic indicators through infrastructure development and steps in pipeline to deal with the increasing unemployment problem.
Reiterating the government's resolve to promote the lucrative tourism industry, he said the thrust has been laid to develop every potential area as independent tourism destination.
In this regard, he listed various steps taken by the government to promote tourism in the region, especially in the winter capital.
"Besides further developing already famous tourist spots of the region like Patnitop, the prestigious Tawi River Front development project, Development of Mubarak Mandi Royal complex into heritage site and Peerkho-Mohmaya Ropeway project and likes are bound to add new dimensions to tourism industry in the region," he added.
Listing the steps taken to generate employment in public sector, he said the state government has started the process of appointing 19,000 youth by raising 5 police battalions.
"Besides this, doctors and teachers would also be recruited to overcome the problem of staff shortage in health and education sectors," he informed.
"In my opinion, the major step taken for employability of educated youth is the thrust on skill development through a series of state and centrally sponsored programmes. This initiative is definitely going to make a lot of difference on employment front," Singh said.
There was no untoward incident reported from anywhere, police said.
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