Collective, heedful efforts needed to get JK out of difficult times: Mehbooba

Appeals media to play constructive role, help minimize acrimony

CM asks Ministers to conduct joint field visits, resolve issues of public importance on spot

SRINAGAR, MAY 08: Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti today stressed on collective and heedful efforts by every section of the society to get J&K out of the difficult times and the looming uncertainties. She said this is not the first time that people of the State have seen tough times but in the past also they have braved challenges and come out resolutely.

The Chief Minister was interacting with media-persons on the sidelines of opening of Durbar Move offices in Srinagar today.

The Chief Minister reminded that many highs and lows have come in the chequered history of the State but the people through sheer resolve came out of every difficult situation with resilience. She said even the two decade long turmoil of yesteryears had to be concluded through a series of dialogues and negotiations. “I remember 1996 when it was difficult to even conduct a public meeting. But people have come out of that and would also pass through the present times with resilience,” she said and appealed for collective and vigilant efforts by every section of the society in this regard.

Terming youth as an asset and a promise for a better future, the Chief Minister said the youth of the State have made us proud in all fields they went and competed. “Be it studies, sports or competitive exams, our youth have performed so well to hold our heads high”, she said and asked them to exhibit their potential in any corner of the country. “Jammu & Kashmir is a jewel in the crown of India and our youth have the whole canvas of the country available to display their talent in whatever field they take the plunge”, she said and added that education is a movement which leads a society from darkness towards light.

Mehbooba Mufti appealed media to play a constructive role in minimizing the divide between sections of the society and act as a guide and a beacon to show the right path to the government and the people whenever they deflect from their objective. She asked the media, particularly national media, not to harp on negativities but instead focus on the similarities and help in reducing tensions and acrimony among people.

The Chief Minister said though some youth might be disillusioned with the system but the media should not bracket the entire generation but work towards clearing their disillusionment and create an atmosphere of goodwill.

Later the Chief Minister chaired a meeting of the Council of Ministers soon after the opening of Civil Secretariat here today, the Chief Minister asked the Ministers to undertake joint visits to areas to resolve the issues of people and mobilize local administration at the grassroots level. She said the challenge lies in how effectively and efficiently governance is rendered to the people in a cost and time effective manner.

Mehbooba Mufti asked all the Ministers to work in a team spirit and take the governance delivery as a challenge. She asked the Ministers to work holistically for the welfare of the State and not limit themselves to some particular areas or regions.

The meeting took a comprehensive review of the law and order and development scenario in the State.

Earlier on her arrival at the Civil Secretariat this morning, the Chief Minister was given a ceremonial reception by a contingent of J&K Police.

Members of the Council of Ministers, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, Administrative Secretaries and a large number of employees of the Civil Secretariat accorded a warm welcome to the Chief Minister on her arrival.