KASHMIR BAGGED THE POVERTY REDUCTION AWARD

Srinagar Dec 23 (Only Kashmir): After bagging the best State Awards in the sectors of health, horticulture and forest protection successively, the Jammu and Kashmir State grabbed the Best Award for Poverty Reduction conferred to Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah by Speaker Lok Sabha, Meera Kumar at the awards giving function of IBN7 Diamond States Awards 2012 here on Saturday evening.

            This is yet another feather in the cap of Omar Abdullah led coalition government for its good-governance and commitment for equitable development and poverty alleviation. The last four years have witnessed path breaking initiatives of present dispensation aimed at upgrading basic amenities, reaching out to all areas equitably on development front, empowering common man, strengthening institutions, bringing transparency, making public service delivery fast and administration answerable before the people besides working for restoration of peace in the State.

            The efforts of the government are being recognized by independent organizations and media houses regularly. As a part of this recognition, the Jammu and Kashmir State was awarded the prestigious Best State Award for Poverty Reduction by the Jury of IBN7 Diamond States Awards 2012 and Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah received the prestigious award at the hands of Speaker Lok Sabha, Meira Kumar.

            While receiving the award, Omar Abdullah said that the process of poverty alleviation was kick-started in the State by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah when he announced and implemented Agrarian Reforms and made former owner of the agriculture land free of cost. (OK)