Home Minister of India reviews security situation in Kashmir; announces 2.5 lakh jobs

Srinagar, Oct 24 (Only Kashmir): The Home Minister of India Mr. Rajnath Singh Tuesday visited Kashmir to review the security situation and takes stock of the important developmental initiatives in the state.
Addressing the media at Nehru Guest House, Singh congratulated the State government for successfully conducting the Urban Local Body elections.
Earlier during the day, the Union Home Minister chaired the security review meeting on the security situation in the state and also met the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Satyapal Malik. He also met a number of delegations across the political spectrum and appealed them to ensure maximum participation in the upcoming Panchayat elections to strengthen the grassroot democratic setup and to ensure accountability. Local bodies are also being vested with significantly enhanced devolution of powers in line with best practices in the country. This will enable them to address most of the local issues in their jurisdictions, he added.



Appealing the masses to come forward, he said that the democratic way is the only solution by which we can mitigate big problems and resolve serious issues. Highlighting a major shift that has been observed in the last 4 months in view of the security scenario of the state, Singh said that there has been a decrease in the number of Stone pelting incidents. Also, there is a decline in the rate of militant recruitment in the State.
He talked about the special employment initiatives that are being worked upon by the central government through which 2.5 lakh youth will get employment.
Terming the deaths of civilians that took place in an explosion after encounter in Kulgam, Home Minister, Rajnath Singh expressed his regret over the loss of lives and extended his condolences towards the families of the deceased and announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each to the families. He appealed the civilians not to visit encounter sites shortly after the operations.
Singh also informed that road connectivity will be taken up for Kargil, Dras, Gurez and Keran. DPRs has been sought for the same.