Highlighting the transformational journey of Kathua over the past 12 years, union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh Thursday stated that the border district has evolved from a neglected border town into a major centre of industrial growth, healthcare, education, innovation and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
Continuing his outreach programme across his parliamentary constituency as part of the celebrations marking 12 years of the Narendra Modi-led Government at the Centre, Dr Singh, addressing a public gathering near Khilochak Pond falling under Jastora Assembly constituency in Kathua district, said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kathua has witnessed unprecedented development across multiple sectors, creating new opportunities for residents, and strengthening the district’s role as a key growth hub in the region.”
On the occasion, the Minister also announced that Kathua will soon be connected through Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Express Corridor, substantially enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic activities.
He also informed that a gas pipeline project for the district is on the anvil, and is expected to be implemented shortly, providing cleaner and more efficient energy access to residents and industries.
Dr Singh stated that the tender for the proposed Homeopathy College in the district has already been floated.
He added that the foundation stone for the institution will take place soon.
In another important development, Dr Singh informed that the process of transferring land for the proposed Arun Jaitley Stadium in Hiranagar is currently underway.
“The stadium will provide modern facilities to aspiring athletes and promote sporting culture in the area,” he said.
Highlighting the development initiatives undertaken during the last 12 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the union Minister stated that a new culture of transparent, accountable, and development-oriented governance has emerged across the country.
He said the government has worked with the principle of inclusive development, ensuring that welfare schemes reach every citizen irrespective of caste, religion, or region.
Flagship initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana have benefited millions of households, particularly women, by providing clean cooking fuel, financial support, and improving their quality of life, he added.
Enumerating the major achievements in the district, Dr Singh said the installation of Maharaja Gulab Singh’s statue, the establishment of a Passport Office, and the setting up of Engineering and Medical Colleges have significantly expanded access to higher education and professional training.
He also highlighted the setting up of North India’s first Seed Processing Plant, a Biotechnology Industrial Park, and a Homeopathic Medical College, which have collectively strengthened Kathua’s educational and research ecosystem.
Speaking on healthcare infrastructure, Dr Singh noted that the Government Medical College has transformed medical services in the district by improving access to quality healthcare and reducing the need for patients to travel outside the region for advanced treatment.
Dr Singh also referred to strategic projects such as the ShahpurKandi Project, whose foundation stone had been laid by a former Prime Minister but remained pending for decades before being expedited under the present government.
The union Minister announced that the proposed Arun Jaitley Stadium at Hiranagar is moving forward, with additional land being transferred for the project.
He also underscored the introduction of two Vande Bharat Express trains in Jammu and Kashmir, describing them as a landmark step towards modern transportation and enhanced connectivity for the people of the union Territory.
