Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Jan 22: In a high-stakes move to fortify the security grid and infrastructure of Jammu & Kashmir, Ranbir Singh Pathania (MLA Udhampur East) and Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj (MLA Ramnagar) held a meeting today with the Union Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, at, South Block here.
The meeting underscores a powerful “ultimate agency” by the local leadership to bridge the gap between frontier connectivity and national security. The delegation presented a strategic roadmap to the Raksha Mantri, focusing on turning the Udhampur-Ramnagar-Majalta belt into a “Strategic Force Multiplier” for the Indian Army and security forces.
The MLAs championed the urgent upgradation of five critical road axes, identifying them as vital for area domination and counter-terror mobility.
They, while demanding widening of Udhampur -Dhar road said extra land already with BRO and this road is effective link for defence related activities and supplies too.
They also stressed standardising of Samba to Battal road. This major link connects Dhar and National Highway enroute to the holy shrine of Mansar, they added.
?They stressed on development of Dhar road Ujj bridge to Marta Jofar road and link road Rajua to Noul via Garh Samna Banj which is essential for neutralizing security vacuums in hilly terrains.
They also demanded development of Machhedi to Khaned via Chochro Gala, road a strategic link to enhance the operational flexibility of the police and CAPFs (Central Armed Police Forces).
The leaders advocated for the establishment of a Sainik School in Udhampur. Given its status as the Northern Command Headquarters, they emphasized that a Sainik School would not only fulfil the aspirations of the local youth but also serve as a cradle for future military leaders.
Furthermore, they called for expanded Army-led youth engagement under Operation Sadbhavana, including the construction of multi-purpose sports stadia in Dhanouri and Majalta to foster national integration and combat anti-social influences.
The Union Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, expressed profound appreciation for the detailed strategic insights provided by the legislators. He remarked that the Union Government is committed to the “Viksit Bharat” vision, where border and hinterland security are bolstered by world-class infrastructure.
The Raksha Mantri assured the delegation that the Ministry would fast-track the evaluation of these projects, recognizing their significance in ensuring a robust security posture and the holistic development of the region.
“Our mission is to ensure that no terrain is too difficult for our forces and no youth is left without opportunity. The meeting marks a significant leap toward a safer, stronger Udhampur” — said MLAs after the meeting.
The post Pathania, Bhardwaj call on Rajnath Singh appeared first on Daily Excelsior.