Jammu, April 6 Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Monday that ATR services are likely to begin within the next five to six months as part of efforts to operationalize an airport in the region, while a permanent facility will take more time to become functional.
Reviewing the status of the proposed airport at Udhampur for civilian operations, Singh said that the process of land transfer has commenced with the concurrence of the Union Territory government.
"A meeting was held at the site with senior officials from the Centre to discuss the operation of the airport, during which it was decided that additional land would be transferred by the Jammu and Kashmir government for the construction of a larger structure," he told reporters.
Singh, who as a local MP initiated this project, said, "In the meantime, it was agreed that ATR (small aircraft) services could be started immediately. The Air Force authorities have agreed to provide space measuring 100 by 100 square metres within their premises".
Singh added that the process has already begun, a small structure will be constructed for the initial service, and the tender for the same has been floated.
"We are hopeful that in the coming months, at least within five to six months, ATR services will begin," he said, adding that a permanent airport will be established once the larger infrastructure is ready.
Referring to development initiatives, Singh highlighted the success of millet-based innovations, promoted under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the observance of the International Year of Millets.
He said a world-class food technology institute in Mysuru has developed a variety of millet-based recipes, which are now being adopted by global food chains, such as McDonald's.
Drawing a parallel, the minister said that efforts are underway to promote Kaladi, a traditional dairy product from Udhampur identified under the "One District One Product" initiative.
"Our scientists have worked on increasing its shelf life from one to two days to about eight to ten days. Further research is ongoing to develop recipes without compromising their flavour and nutritional value," he said.
Singh expressed hope that the work will be completed in the next five to six months, after which the product will be promoted through food chains to reach a wider audience.
The minister noted that the initiative has the potential to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities and enhance income for local producers.
He also said that work on the express corridor is progressing, and the Katra stretch may take some time; the section up to Vijaypur and beyond is expected to become functional soon.
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.
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 also 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 status of the International Yoga Centre at Mantalai.
"It can be made operational through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Opening the centre through this mode will help ensure professional management, optimal utilisation of infrastructure and improved services, as well as promote wellness tourism," he added.