Udhampur Civil Airport To Become Functional In Coming Months: Dr Jitendra

UDHAMPUR  : The Civil Airport at Udhampur will become functional in coming months. The tender for the construction of the airport terminal was floated nearly three weeks ago and, upon completion of the requisite formalities, the work order can be issued accordingly.

This was stated by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in a public outreach event at Udhampur Jammu.

The Minister said that the airport is initially planned to facilitate ATR aircraft operations, which will substantially improve regional air connectivity and provide a major boost to tourism, trade, investment and employment generation.

Addressing the gathering , Dr Jitendra Singh said, the last twelve years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi have transformed the development landscape of Jammu & Kashmir, with Udhampur emerging as a major beneficiary of infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity, public welfare initiatives and economic empowerment.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said that one of the most far-reaching achievements of the Modi Government has been the successful implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which revolutionised financial inclusion in the country. He noted that crores of previously unbanked citizens, particularly women, rural residents and economically weaker sections, were brought into the formal banking system, enabling direct transfer of benefits and ensuring transparency in welfare delivery.

Highlighting India’s growing strategic and economic strength, the Minister said that the defence sector has emerged as a major success story of the Modi Government. He noted that defence exports, which were negligible a decade ago, have registered unprecedented growth and crossed record levels, reflecting India’s emergence as a trusted global defence manufacturing hub.

Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted that the development of Udhampur reflects the larger story of a growing India where aspirations have been matched with opportunities and governance has reached the last mile. “The last twelve years have seen decisive leadership, transparent governance and inclusive development. From world-class infrastructure and improved connectivity to welfare schemes and economic empowerment, every section of society has benefited from the policies of the Modi Government,” said Dr Jitendra Singh.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said that one of the most visible symbols of the infrastructure revolution in Jammu & Kashmir is the landmark Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel on the Chenani-Nashri stretch, which has substantially reduced travel time and enhanced all-weather connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir. He further informed that approval has now been granted for the construction of an additional twin-tube tunnel parallel to the existing structure, which will further improve traffic management, safety and highway capacity on this vital national corridor.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also highlighted the growing national recognition of Udhampur’s traditional dairy product, Kaladi, which received Geographical Indication (GI) status. He said the Government is now facilitating scientific upscaling, value addition and improved shelf-life of Kaladi under the One District One Product initiative, enabling local producers to access national and international markets while preserving its traditional identity.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that the establishment of the Biotech Industrial Park at Ghati, Kathua, has positioned Jammu & Kashmir on India’s biotechnology map and opened new avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship and employment in cutting-edge sectors. He said the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to promoting knowledge-driven industries in the region.

Referring to connectivity projects, the Minister said that the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway and other major road corridors are set to significantly reduce travel time, improve logistics and accelerate economic activity across Jammu & Kashmir. He said enhanced connectivity is a key driver of development and investment.

The Minister highlighted the introduction of Vande Bharat train services to Jammu & Kashmir as a landmark achievement in the transportation sector. He said the modern rail connectivity has strengthened integration with the rest of the country while providing faster, safer and more comfortable travel to the people.

The Minister said that the widening and upgradation of the Dhar Road and other road infrastructure projects undertaken during the last decade have significantly improved connectivity for residents living in remote and hilly areas, facilitating easier movement of people, goods and services.

The Union Minister also referred to the development of the Mantalai area in Udhampur district, which has witnessed focused attention under various Central schemes aimed at improving tourism infrastructure, public amenities and connectivity creating new opportunities of sustainable economic growth while showcasing the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Listing other major achievements in the broader Udhampur parliamentary constituency, Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab, expansion of educational and healthcare facilities, promotion of the Lavender Mission, strengthening of digital connectivity and implementation of various flagship welfare schemes that have directly benefited thousands of families.

He said that the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 is rooted in the strong developmental foundation laid during the last twelve years and called upon citizens, especially the youth, to become active partners in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.

A large number of citizens, public representatives and local dignitaries attended the programme.