Satish Sharma calls on Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

NEW DELHI: Minister for FCS&CA, Transport Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology, Science and Technology, ARI and Trainings, Satish Sharma, called on Union Minister for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh and had a detailed discussion regarding overall development scenario in J&K with special focus on rural areas and border areas, initiatives and innovations in the field of Science & Technology, research and exploration in medicinal plants.

During the discussion, the Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir is home to several iconic water bodies which are vital to the region’s ecology, economy and tourism industry.

He put forth proposal for establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Rejuvenation of Water Bodies with comprehensive approach for environmental revitalisation and resource optimisation.

The proposed plan will ensure sustainable resource utilisation, environmental conservation and socio-economic upliftment of local communities.

Satish Sharma also stressed that J&K is bestowed with huge natural resources in terms of medicinal, aromatic, floriculture and cash crops. He urged for early completion of two upcoming Industrial Biotech Parks, implementation of CSIR Aroma Mission and Floriculture Mission besides developing a start-up ecosystem in the region.

He also requested for establishment of an Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) to support the Science, Technology and Innovation initiatives in the region.

The Minister also discussed overall development of refugees and urged for development of border areas having potential to attract tourists so that these spots can be highlighted in tourism maps in order to benefit local populace.

The Union Minister, while responding to the issues and demands projected by Satish Sharma, assured to consider the same for prompt action.