Jammu–Union Minister of State for Science and Technology (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh on Sunday said the Centre is actively working on strategies to stop the flow of water from Jammu and Kashmir to Pakistan and ensure that surplus water is utilised within India.
Addressing a public ‘Darbar’ in Kathua, Singh said the Union government intends to divert excess water for use in Indian states such as Haryana and Rajasthan, as well as within Jammu and Kashmir itself. “We will use the extra water for states like Haryana, Rajasthan or within Jammu and Kashmir, but we will not allow it to flow to Pakistan. Work in this direction is in progress,” he told reporters.
Responding to a controversy raised by right-wing Hindu activists over the admission of non-Hindus to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College, the minister said the matter falls under the authority of the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. “The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, must have already settled the issue, as he is competent to do so as the head of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Trust,” Singh said.
During the interaction, the Union Minister also announced that India’s largest Homeopathy College will be established in Kathua. He said the proposed institution would significantly strengthen medical education infrastructure in the region and create new opportunities for students.
The public darbar saw participation from local residents who raised various civic and developmental concerns. Singh directed officials present to take note of the grievances and ensure appropriate follow-up action.
Jitendra Singh, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), represents the Kathua-Udhampur constituency in the Lok Sabha. A native of Jammu district, he was elected to the 18th Lok Sabha in 2024, winning the seat for the third consecutive time. (Source: IANS)
