Srinagar, Jun 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called upon newly-appointed Junior Engineers (Civil) of the Public Works Department to treat public funds as a “sacred trust” and ensure the creation of durable, high-quality infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at SKICC during a function where appointment orders were distributed among 132 Junior Engineers, the Chief Minister said the recruitment letters carry the hopes and expectations of the people of the Union Territory. He stressed that every rupee of public money must be used with honesty, accountability and responsibility, adding that infrastructure projects must be designed with a long-term vision and should stand the test of time.
CM Omar said roads, bridges, hospitals and public buildings must not only meet present needs but remain functional for decades, adding that citizens do not expect freshly laid roads to deteriorate after a single spell of rain.
He described engineers as the backbone of development, saying their work will play a decisive role in shaping Jammu and Kashmir’s future for decades to come. He also urged them to serve sincerely in all postings without seeking transfers, especially in remote and far-flung areas, stating that public service demands equal commitment everywhere.
Acknowledging execution challenges such as material shortages and other constraints, the Chief Minister said such difficulties must not weaken the commitment towards public service delivery. He added that every project should become a symbol of quality, integrity and professionalism, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
Later, speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, CM Omar Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir government’s plan for restoration of statehood remains unchanged.
He said the National Conference leadership will visit Delhi during the Monsoon Session to strongly raise the issue, including at Jantar Mantar.
He said the promises made to the people in the Supreme Court, Parliament and other public forums must be honoured, adding that there is no change in the government’s stand.
Referring to his recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM Omar said discussions were held on statehood, Jammu and Kashmir’s financial situation and ways to accelerate development projects, expressing hope that the outcomes would benefit the people.
On reservation, he said the proposal is awaiting Cabinet approval after the Centre sought clarifications. He said the Cabinet Sub-Committee report has been cleared and forwarded, while responses to queries have been prepared and a Cabinet meeting will soon be held to finalise the matter.
Reviews Muharram arrangements
Srinagar, Jun 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday directed the officials to ensure seamless facilities for devotees in the forthcoming month of Muharram.
According to the details, CM Omar today chaired a high-level meeting to review the arrangements being put in place for the smooth observance of Muharram-2026 across Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized that preparations for Muharram had been underway for considerable time and that today’s meeting was aimed at reviewing the progress made so far and identifying any remaining gaps. “The preparations for Muharram have not started today. Extensive groundwork has already been undertaken at the district, divisional and departmental levels. This meeting provides an opportunity to collectively review the arrangements, assess what has been accomplished and ensure that whatever remains is completed well in time,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that Deputy Commissioners, community representatives, elected representatives and departmental officers had already held extensive consultations at the grassroots level. He said the Government was committed to ensuring that all arrangements are put in place in a coordinated and efficient manner.
“Like every year, the Government will make every possible effort to ensure that there are no shortcomings and that all necessary facilities are provided to the people during Muharram,” he added.
