Govt committed to address genuine demands of nomads: Kohli

Equitable dev of all regions of JK priority of present dispensation: Jugal Kishore

SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 19: Minister for Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, Abdul Ghani Kohli Tuesday said that the Government is committed to fulfill all the genuine demands of nomadic populace and measures are afoot for their socio-economic upliftment.

 This was stated by the Minister while addressing a gathering of   Gujjar and Bakerwal community who called him here today.

Member Parliament Jugal Kishore was also present on the occasion.

The Minister said the Government is abreast with the issues being faced by Gujjar and Bakerwals who arrive in the meadows of Kashmir and parts of Ladakh from Rajouri and Poonch districts with their flocks of cattle and sheep.

Responding to the demands put forth by the nomads, Kohli said that their genuine demands will be looked into and taken up for their time bound redressal. He said the Government has already established migrant mobile schools for nomadic Gujjar and Bakerwal tribes.

He said that the seasonal shifting of homes ensures a regular flow of income for the families and added that it is the biggest impediment for those who want to ensure formal education for their children.

The Minister said education is important for the overall development of nomadic kids and assured that Government is committed to provide quality education to them at their doorsteps.

The Minister said that he would take up the issue of insurance for nomadic livestock and said that measures are on to provide improved medical facilities to nomadic people and their livestock as well.  

He said that the directions have already been given to the Animal and Sheep Husbandry Departments to ensure medicare facilities at every Veterinary Health Centres.

Responding to the demand of reservation quota for Gujjars in 8^th Schedule, Kohli said that it is under active consideration of the Government.

With regard to enhancing in timing of telecasting and broadcasting of Gujjar programmes from Doordarshan and Radio Kashmir respectively also popular in PoK, Baltistan and Gilgit, the Minister said that the matter would be taken up with the Doordarshan and All India Radio authorities soon.

Member Parliament, Jugal Kishore also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the achievements of the present Government. He said the Government is committed to ensure equitable development of all the three regions of the State.