MLASPEAK:Committed to tackling Beerwah’s unemployment problems: Dr Mohammad Shafi

Dr. Mohammad Shafi Wani, a prominent leader and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Beerwah Constituency, has reiterated his commitment to addressing the fundamental issues faced by his community and enhancing infrastructure within the sectors of healthcare and education across Beerwah.
In an exclusive interview with Rising Kashmir, Dr Wani announced his intention to contest the upcoming assembly elections on the National Conference (NC) ticket. With the electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir set to begin, he emphasised that the party’s agenda encompasses both political and developmental components. The political aspect, according to Dr. Wani, focuses on advocating for the rights of Jammu and Kashmir’s residents, which were revoked on August 5, 2019. The development agenda includes plans to improve key sectors such as health, education, horticulture, agriculture, handicrafts, road connectivity, tourism, and electricity across the region.
Dr. Wani expressed confidence in the support from the people of Jammu and Kashmir for this comprehensive agenda, which the National Conference has already made public in anticipation of the elections scheduled for August 2024.
Reflecting on his previous term as MLA, Dr. Wani recalled the significant development in Beerwah prior to the 2008 elections, when he was first elected and Omar Abdullah served as Chief Minister. He pointed to the establishment of health centers, schools, road infrastructure, and colleges in the constituency during that period. However, Dr. Wani lamented that development efforts have stagnated since the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, depriving the Beerwah community of essential benefits and relief.
He expressed his gratitude to the electorate for placing their trust in him again and emphasized that the National Conference would continue to prioritize the development and welfare of Jammu and Kashmir and its people. “The people of Beerwah have once again shown their faith in me and the National Conference, and I am committed to ensuring their concerns are addressed,” Dr. Wani stated.
When asked about the National Conference’s support across all constituencies in the Budgam district, Dr. Wani affirmed that the party has significant backing throughout the region. He emphasized that the responsibility of all MLAs is to work collectively and address the key issues facing Budgam’s residents. “All MLAs representing the four constituencies in Budgam belong to our party, and together, we are focused on advancing all sectors in the district and providing relief to the public,” he said.
As a doctor by profession with extensive experience in the health sector, including serving with the World Health Organization (WHO) in various countries, Dr. Wani highlighted how his medical career has enabled him to contribute to the well-being of his community. “I have treated patients in my locality and now, as an MLA, I am determined to serve my constituency by working on essential developmental projects,” he said.
Dr. Wani also underlined his commitment to addressing unemployment in the region by focusing on the tourism sector, which he believes offers significant opportunities for local youth. “Tourism has the potential to provide income-generating opportunities for young people across Jammu and Kashmir, especially in the Beerwah constituency,” he said.
He further emphasized the importance of the handicraft sector in Beerwah, noting that many residents rely on it for their livelihoods. “In Kanihuma village, artisans produce the renowned kani-shawl, and in Sonpah village, more than 18 artisans have received state and national awards for their needlework. These sectors, alongside horticulture and agriculture, play a critical role in the economy of Beerwah, and as MLA, I will ensure their sustained growth,” Dr. Wani added.
Later, Dr. Wani reiterated that his priority as MLA would be to implement development projects and provide essential services to his constituents. He assured his community that the National Conference would remain committed to addressing all issues impacting the people of Beerwah. “I will continue to work hard for the welfare of my constituents and make sure they benefit from these vital resources,” he said.