New Delhi/ Jammu, April 7 Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced on Tuesday the establishment of a Doppler weather radar and a permanent seismological observatory in Doda and Kishtwar, respectively, in Jammu and Kashmir.
While the Doppler weather radar would strengthen weather forecasting capabilities, the permanent seismological observatory will improve earthquake monitoring and enhance disaster preparedness in the region.
The developments came during Singh's chairing of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meetings.
The committee is mandated to monitor the effective implementation of key Central government schemes and programmes at the grassroots level.
"During the meeting, the minister also announced that the selection of sites for the installation of automated weather stations in Paddar and Machail (both in Kishtwar) has been completed to improve weather forecasting and support disaster management efforts. He said that the installation process would be undertaken soon," an official said.
The minister urged the public to avail of the benefits of various Centre-sponsored schemes and instructed officers to enhance awareness campaigns for wider outreach.
During the meeting, the issue of developing an airstrip in Kishtwar under the UDAN scheme was also discussed, particularly with regard to acquiring additional land.
The minister directed Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma to take up the land acquisition matter with the concerned authorities for early completion.
The Union minister also reviewed the proposal for developing a Saffron Park in Kishtwar, which has been pending for the past 12 years.
Singh directed the concerned authorities to reach a consensus regarding the suitability of the identified land parcel so that the project can be expedited.
Highlighting the importance of promoting local produce, the minister emphasised the promotion of cumin seeds under the 'One District One Product' initiative.
He suggested that cumin from the district could be developed as a signature product and presented as a souvenir to visiting dignitaries.