Union Home Minister Amit Shah Inaugurates Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Samba, Jammu, and Unveils Development Schemes
June 23, 2023: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, laid the foundation stone of the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in Samba, Jammu, and inaugurated various development schemes in the region. The ceremony took place in commemoration of Balidan Diwas, paying tribute to Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a prominent figure in Indian history.
The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. In his address, Shri Amit Shah emphasized the significant role played by Dr. Mookerjee in uniting Jammu and Kashmir with India and the subsequent abrogation of Article 370.
Shri Shah highlighted that Dr. Mookerjee's resignation as Minister of Industry and Supply in 1953, protesting the inclusion of Article 370, showcased his commitment to a unified India. The Home Minister credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for fulfilling Dr. Mookerjee's vision by revoking Article 370 on August 5, 2019. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Mookerjee and Pandit Prem Nath Dogra for their contributions to making Jammu and Kashmir an integral part of India.
During the ceremony, Shri Amit Shah inaugurated multiple development schemes worth approximately Rs 309 crore. These initiatives included the CFSL in Samba, constructed at a cost of Rs 100 crore, as well as 41 water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission in Ramban and Kishtwar, with a budget of Rs 157.47 crore. Other projects inaugurated were the multi-storey parking at Doda bus stand (Rs 32.46 crore), Bone and Joint Hospital at Bakshi Nagar (Rs 40.86 crore), Grid Station (Rs 17.77 crore), and the road upgradation from Dogra Chowk to K.C Chowk (Rs 25 crore).
Shri Amit Shah also highlighted the successful organization of the G-20 summit in Srinagar, which showcased the region's tourism potential and improved situation to global leaders. He emphasized the re-implementation of the Panchayati Raj system, the establishment of medical and engineering colleges, and the provision of healthcare facilities under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
Furthermore, Shri Shah discussed the significant decline in terrorist incidents and stone-pelting activities after the abrogation of Article 370. He credited the government's efforts, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in cracking down on terrorism and ensuring justice and opportunities for hill communities, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, women, and senior citizens.
Shri Amit Shah applauded the various policies formulated by the Government of India, such as the Industrial Policy, Industrial Land Allotment Policy, Wool Processing, Handicraft and Handloom Policy, and New Film Policy in 2021. These policies have contributed to increased investments and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, with a record 1.88 crore tourists visiting the region in 2022.
The Union Home Minister also highlighted the government's efforts in job creation, self-employment, and youth empowerment. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government has provided 28,000 government jobs, established 51,000 self-employment units, and allocated an industrial package of 28,400 crore to promote transparency and development.
Shri Amit Shah concluded by emphasizing that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is currently on
a three-day visit to the United States, where he has been accorded the honor of a State Guest. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and foster agreements in fields such as space, defense, and semiconductors, attracting significant investments from major companies interested in India.
The Union Home Minister commended Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's progressive initiatives, including the removal of Article 370, the construction of the Ram Mandir, and the abolishment of Triple Talaq. He highlighted the government's commitment to eradicating corruption and uplifting the pride of the nation. The Prime Minister's efforts in providing essential facilities to the country's 60 crore poor population were acknowledged, marking a significant milestone in the country's development.
