Javed Ahmed Rana Unfurls Tricolour in Poonch and Outlines Major Infrastructure Gains for 2026
6POONCH, January 26, 2026 – The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with high patriotic energy at the Sports Stadium, Poonch, where Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, unfurled the National Flag.
The ceremony featured an impressive march-past by 28 contingents, including the JKP, JKAP, CRPF, and NCC, followed by a vibrant cultural program showcasing local talent.
Addressing a massive gathering, the Minister emphasized the empowering role of the Indian Constitution and saluted the legendary resilience of the people of Poonch, specifically recalling their bravery during Operation Sindoor.
During his address, Javed Ahmed Rana highlighted the government’s swift response to the devastating September 2025 landslide in Kalaban village. He confirmed that under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, the administration has ordered the allotment of five marla of land to each of the 123 affected families to ensure their rehabilitation.
Regarding district growth, the Minister revealed that over ₹67 crore has been approved for 2,762 development works this financial year, covering vital sectors like health, roads, and electricity. He also noted that the acceleration of the Jammu–Poonch National Highway and the opening of the Kundi and Nowshera tunnels have significantly transformed travel in the region’s hilly terrain.
The Minister further detailed a massive ₹650 crore power project currently under execution in Poonch, which is set to generate 37 megawatts of electricity. In the water sector, 132 schemes worth ₹502 crore are being implemented under the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure tap water for every household. Infrastructure highlights also included the construction of two major bridges at Sathra and Santi under NABARD and the completion of 50,000 pucca houses under PMAY-G.
The event, attended by MLA Ajaz Ahmad Jan, Deputy Commissioner Ashok Kumar Sharma, and SSP Shafkat Bhat, concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honoring the day’s participants and community contributors.