CHANDIGARH, SEPT 17: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday announced plans to expand accommodation facilities for patients and their attendants travelling from the Union Territory to Amritsar and Chandigarh for medical treatment.
Speaking at a news conference, Abdullah said the J&K Government’s old heritage guest house in Amritsar, which had remained neglected for several years, is being renovated and restored.
He said a new block will also be constructed on vacant land behind the existing building. The facility will include rooms, dormitories and suites and will be made available to patients from Jammu and Kashmir and their accompanying family members.
Abdullah said the initiative aims to address the difficulties faced by patients and attendants in finding affordable accommodation while travelling to Amritsar for medical treatment.
A similar facility is being developed on Jammu and Kashmir Government property in Sector 17, Chandigarh. It will cater to patients and attendants visiting PGIMER and other medical institutions in the city.
Omar on Ladakh’s Demands
Abdullah also advised the leadership in Ladakh to seek written and legally backed assurances from the Centre regarding its demands rather than relying solely on verbal commitments.
“Whatever is promised should be given in writing and officially signed,” Abdullah said, while describing himself as a friend and well-wisher of Ladakh.
His remarks come amid ongoing discussions between Ladakh representatives and the Central Government over demands for constitutional safeguards relating to land and employment.
Abdullah referred to Jammu and Kashmir’s experience regarding the restoration of statehood while stressing the importance of obtaining formal commitments.
Views on UPI Charges
On the debate surrounding possible charges on certain UPI transactions, Abdullah said ordinary users should not be burdened with additional costs.
He distinguished between person-to-person transfers and commercial transactions, saying that while individuals should not face charges, he had no objection to companies being charged for commercial transactions if applicable.
Focus on J&K’s Local Economy
Discussing Jammu and Kashmir’s economic development, Abdullah said the level of investment expected after the 2019 changes related to Article 370 had not materialised to the anticipated extent.
He said Jammu and Kashmir’s geographical and economic conditions required an approach suited to the region rather than simply replicating industrial models followed by neighbouring states such as Punjab.
The Chief Minister said the Government would focus on sectors including agriculture, horticulture, agro-processing and dairy farming, based on locally available resources and the potential to generate employment.
He stressed that Jammu and Kashmir’s investment strategy should take into account its terrain, natural resources and existing economic strengths, rather than relying primarily on large-scale heavy industries.
