Budgam, October 18, 2024: Er Rashid, Member of Parliament from North Kashmir, started his visit to Budgam by inspecting District Hospital Budgam, where he interacted with medical staff and patients, assessing the hospital’s infrastructure and the quality of services being provided.
Following this, Er Rashid conducted a comprehensive review meeting in Budgam, attended by the District Development Commissioner and other district officers and officials. The meeting focused on assessing the ongoing developmental projects and addressing the key concerns of the constituencies in Budgam that fall under the Baramulla parliamentary seat.
During the review, Er Rashid emphasized the need for expediting infrastructure projects and ensuring effective service delivery to the public. The presence of senior district officials underscored the importance of the meeting in addressing administrative and developmental bottlenecks.
Later in the day, Er Rashid visited Berwah Hospital, where he sanctioned funds for the purchase of a laparoscopy machine and an oxygen refill plant, aimed at enhancing the hospital’s capacity to deliver improved medical care to patients in the region.
Er Rashid also visited the damaged bridge in Berwah, where local residents informed him about the hardships they face due to its deteriorating condition. The MP assured them that he would take up the matter with the Public Works Department (PWD) in the coming days to expedite the construction of a new bridge.
In addition to his hospital and infrastructure visits, Er Rashid held a detailed meeting with the Geology and Mining Department, where he emphasized the need for policies that directly benefit local communities and laborers. The MP stressed the importance of framing policies that support the local youth, ensuring that the extraction of resources leads to sustainable development and economic opportunities for the people of the region. Er Rashid highlighted the need for transparent and responsible mining practices that not only promote local industry but also create job opportunities for the youth and safeguard the environment. He urged the department to develop policies that empower the local population, both through employment and capacity-building, while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, Er Rashid chaired a review meeting with the Rural Development Department, where he discussed the progress of ongoing rural development schemes. During this meeting, Er Rashid sanctioned ₹30 lakhs for installing lights in rural areas to improve public safety and infrastructure. Additionally, he approved the allocation of 30% of the material components for various development schemes, ensuring that essential resources are available for the timely execution of projects.
He stressed the need for quicker implementation of infrastructure projects such as roads, water supply, and sanitation in rural areas. Er Rashid highlighted the importance of ensuring that development schemes are inclusive and reach the most remote and underserved communities. He also called for enhanced coordination between local bodies and the department to address the specific needs of the rural population, particularly in terms of generating employment through government schemes like MGNREGA and boosting the local agrarian economy through targeted initiatives.
Later, Er Rashid offered Friday prayers at Berwah Jamia Masjid, where he also took the opportunity to interact with local civil society members and traders. He listened to their concerns and assured them of his support in addressing key issues impacting their daily lives.
In another significant visit, Er Rashid went to the home of Mohammad Ayoub Pathan at Gandipora Berwah, who has been lodged in Tihar Jail for the past five years. The MP expressed his solidarity with the family and assured them of his continued support in seeking justice for their loved one.
