MLA Jasrotia meets Dr Jitendra, discusses homeopathy college, highway development

New Delhi, Oct 26: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Rajiv Jasrotia called on Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, to express gratitude for the recent approval of the first academic session at the newly sanctioned Homeopathy College in Kathua. He said the milestone represents a significant advancement in healthcare and educational development in Jammu and Kashmir.
During the meeting, Jasrotia, according to his statement issued here, urged Dr Singh to expedite the commencement of the HHAI Project from Rajbagh in Kathua to Doda under the Bharat Mala Project. He said the finalised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Lakhanpur-Basohli-Bani-Bhaderwah-Doda National Highway will reduce travel distance by over 100 kilometres. “Currently, the journey from Lakhanpur to Doda via NH44 is approximately 260 kilometres; the new route will shorten this to about 140 kilometres, greatly enhancing accessibility,” he said.
A key feature of the project is the proposed Balasundari Tunnel, which will streamline the route through the hills of Mata Balasundari, further connecting Sheetalnagar in Basohli and Bani. Additionally, the 6.8-km Chattergala Tunnel will link the erstwhile Doda region to Kathua, bypassing the challenging Chattergala top, the MLA said.
Jasrotia highlighted the project’s economic and social benefits, stating, “Once completed, the highway will cut travel time, boost trade, create jobs, and generate revenue for locals.” He described the Lakhanpur-Doda highway as a potential game-changer for the region, promoting tourism, enhancing security, and contributing to the overall progress of Jammu and Kashmir.
Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India and Jammu and Kashmir, Jasrotia noted the government’s focus on empowering the poor, farmers, youth and women through various welfare schemes, aligning with the mantra of “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas”.
He pointed to major infrastructure developments in North India, including the Atal Setu cable-stayed bridge and J&K’s first inter-state bridge at Keerian-Gandyal, as evidence of progress previously thought unattainable.
Jasrotia highlighted Kathua’s remarkable development, noting it has become one of the most advanced Lok Sabha constituencies in the country. He listed key achievements such as the establishment of three medical colleges, the highest railway bridge in the world, the longest road tunnel in Asia, the first river rejuvenation project in North India, the first Homoeopathy College in North India, and the first Biotech Park in North India. He also mentioned the introduction of two Vande Bharat trains and several national highways and hydroelectric projects.