Udhampur: Underscoring his vision of transforming road connectivity as the foundation for inclusive development, MLA Udhampur East Ranbir Singh Pathania today inaugurated and dedicated to the people a series of important road projects in the constituency, reiterating that every village and habitation must be connected with better roads and, through them, with opportunities for education, healthcare, employment and growth.
MLA inaugurated three major road projects involving an overall investment of around ₹17.21 crore. These include the Nakki–Amwara to Farwa Stain road, measuring 2.400 km and costing ₹5.78 crore; the Dhar Road to Sourtha road, measuring 3.375 km and costing ₹7.46 crore; and the Barta HSS to Chapper road under PMGSY, measuring 1.8 km and costing ₹3.97 crore.
Addressing the gathering, Pathania said that road connectivity was no longer merely an infrastructure requirement but an essential instrument of social and economic transformation. “A road is a bridge between aspiration and opportunity. Our endeavour is to ensure that the remotest village of Udhampur East is not left behind in the journey towards a Viksit Bharat,” he said.
He informed the gathering that the constituency is also witnessing work towards major connectivity initiatives, including the proposed four-laning of Dhar Road, involving an estimated investment of around ₹2,500 crore, besides the proposed NH connectivity from Samba to Udhampur via Battal. He said that PMGSY and PWD roads across the constituency would also be taken up in a phased manner according to priority and public requirements.
“Development must speak the language of the next generation” asserting
Pathania said that infrastructure development must be aligned with the aspirations of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who are growing up in an India that is increasingly confident, connected, scientific and globally competitive.
As part of his interaction with the younger generation, Pathania visited GHSS Barta and GHS Sundla, where he interacted with students and teachers and listened to their aspirations, ideas and concerns. Appreciating the enthusiasm and confidence of the students, he said that the vibrant spirit, scientific temperament and fighting spirit visible among today's youngsters represent the strength of New India.
He said that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are standing true to the finest principles and values of India, combining modern outlook and scientific curiosity with compassion, respect and a strong sense of responsibility towards society.
“Our young generation is embracing science, technology and innovation, but at the same time remaining rooted in the timeless Indian ethos of Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and respect for elders. This balance between modernity and our civilisational values will be the real strength of Viksit Bharat,” Pathania said.
During the interactions, Pathania encouraged the students to dream big, question, innovate and develop a scientific temperament, while remaining connected to their roots and responsibilities towards society and the nation. He said that the India of tomorrow would be shaped by the confidence, creativity and character of today's students.
The students also expressed their resolve to contribute to the Viksit Bharat journey and become active participants in nation-building.
Pathania said that the constituency's development agenda would therefore not be restricted to roads and physical infrastructure but would also focus on education, youth empowerment, skills, technology and creating an environment where young people can realise their potential without having to leave their villages for basic opportunities.
He said that connectivity projects would continue to receive priority, particularly in areas where poor road access affects students, farmers, workers and ordinary residents.
A large number of people participated in the programmes and expressed appreciation for the ongoing development initiatives.
Among those present were Mohan Lal Sharma and Ashish Sharma, Mandal Pradhans; Raman Khajuria, Leela Sharma, Nitya Nand, Dharan Chand Smailia, Sandeep Bhagat, Sansar Singh, Ved Pal, Nimarta Bali, Manoj Verma and Nisha Devi, besides a galaxy of local residents, public representatives and former PRI members.
Pathania reiterated that the ultimate objective was to build an “Udhampur East that is better connected, better educated, more empowered and fully prepared for the opportunities of a Viksit Bharat."
