ATR flights from Udhampur to start from existing premises in next few months ; Process of Land Transfer for full fledged Civilian Airport later Commences, says Dr Jitendra Singh

Technology driven recipes of Local Milk Product ‘Kaladi’ being developed by National level Mysuru Institute, with Extended Shelf Life and Marketability

JK News Today

Jammu, 06, April, 2026: Reviewing the status of the proposed airport at Udhampur for civilian operations, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh informed today that the process of land transfer has commenced with the concurrence of the UT government. He added that meanwhile, the tender for fabrication work has already been floated to start ATR flights from the existing premises in next few months.

Highlighting the importance of accessible and quality healthcare, the Minister informed that the Army Command Hospital Udhampur has agreed to extend super-speciality medical services to the civilian population. He asked the district administration and MLAs to create awareness among the public regarding these services, and to identify deserving patients who can be referred for specialised treatment. He suggested that health camps can be organised on a quarterly basis by the Command Hospital for the benefit of local people.

The Minister also reviewed the progress of branding of local milk -product Kaladi under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. He said, a project has been undertaken by National level Mysuru institute to technologically make Kaladi recipes viable for national and international food chains by extending its shelf life and delicacy without compromising its quality. The Minister noted that the initiative has the potential to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities and enhance income for local producers.

Dr. Jitendra Singh was chairing the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting here today to review the implementation and progress of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) and key infrastructure projects in the district.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also took note of the progress of the Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Expressway and expressed satisfaction that the project is picking up pace. He observed that the corridor will significantly enhance connectivity, promote tourism and contribute to economic growth in the region.

The Minister also reviewed the status of the International Yoga Centre at Mantalai. He said it can be made operational through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. He stated that opening the centre through this mode will help ensure professional management, optimal utilization of infrastructure and improved services as well as promote wellness tourism.

In his address, Dr.Jitendra Singh underscored that roads, drinking water and power supply must be accorded the highest priority. He directed the implementing agencies to ensure time-bound execution of projects. Stressing the importance of forging close coordination by the district authorities with elected representatives, Dr Singh emphasised that MLAs and other public representatives must be kept informed and actively involved in planning, execution and monitoring of developmental works.

Reviewing the progress of rural connectivity projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), the Minister highlighted pending issues related to forest clearances in certain parts of the district. He directed that the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) convene a meeting with local MLAs at the earliest to resolve bottlenecks and facilitate expeditious forest clearances so that road projects are not delayed.

Taking stock of the power scenario in the district, Dr. Jitendra Singh called for urgent steps to augment and strengthen the electricity distribution network, including installation of additional transformers in underserved areas. He instructed that a meeting of stakeholders be held in consultation with NTPC to prepare a coordinated plan for improving power infrastructure.

During today’s DISHA meeting, Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Minga Sherpa gave a presentation on the progress of Centrally Sponsored Schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission, AMRUT 2.0, PMGSY, PMAY, PM Surya Ghar Yojana and PM SHRI Schools in the district. The meeting was briefed on the status of construction of New Government Medical College in Udhampur. It was informed that radiology block would be completed soon and, GMC shall be handed over by June 2026.

The meeting was attended by MLA Chenani, Balwant Singh Mankotia; MLA Udhampur West, Pawan Kumar Gupta; MLA Udhampur East, Ranbir. Singh Pathania, MLA Ramnagar, Sunil Bhardwaj, senior officers of the district administration and representatives of line departments.

Later, Dr Jitendra Singh donated an ambulance to Government Medical College (GMC), Udhampur under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS). He stated that the ambulance would strengthen emergency medical response and patient transportation services in the district.