Jammu, 11 March (H.S.): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reviewed plans to establish new JK Houses in Dwarka in the national capital and Mumbai and to revamp existing government properties across several states and Union Territories to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s presence nationwide.

The review meeting was attended by Resident Commissioner J&K Ramesh Kumar and senior officers of the Resident Commission and concerned departments.

They presented updates on the ongoing projects, budgetary requirements as well as future development plans aimed at strengthening the institutional infrastructure outside Jammu and Kashmir.

While reviewing the progress of multiple infrastructure projects being handled by the J&K Resident Commission, the Chief Minister stressed that all upcoming and renovated JK House properties must showcase the rich cultural heritage and distinctive identity of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Ensure that the new constructions and restructuring of existing properties carry a local touch of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy so that these government assets reflect a unique blend of heritage and modern functionality,” the Chief Minister said.

The meeting reviewed the status of J&K government properties in Dwarka and 5, Prithviraj Road in New Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar and Mumbai and also discussed proposals for expansion and modernisation of facilities meant for officials, students, patients and visitors from Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was informed that the government has initiated steps to establish a new JK House in Dwarka, New Delhi, to augment accommodation and administrative infrastructure for J&K officials and visitors. Similarly, the government is pursuing the development of a JK House at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai to enhance J&K’s presence in the country’s financial capital.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasised that these government properties should serve as symbols of pride for Jammu and Kashmir and showcase its cultural richness and architectural identity.

“These institutions must make J&K proud of its properties and should stand as dignified representations in different regions of the country,” he said, directing the officers to ensure quality infrastructure and timely completion of projects.

While reviewing the proposed JK House in Amritsar, the Chief Minister asked the concerned authorities to take up the issue of land consolidation with the Punjab government. He said that the presently available land parcels are scattered and may not serve the intended purpose of building a functional government facility.

The Chief Minister instructed the officers to request the Punjab government to allot a single, consolidated plot so that a properly planned JK House can be developed in Amritsar.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar