In a series of public outreach interactions, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport Youth Services & Sports, IT, Science and Technology, Satish Sharma, today met with multiple delegations from across Jammu and Kashmir.

These included retired employees of JKRTC, National Youth Corps (NYC) volunteers and several public deputations from various districts.

The meetings highlighted the government’s responsive approach towards the concerns of various segments of society.

A delegation from the Retired Works Union of JKRTC called upon the Minister and submitted a memorandum requesting release of long-pending Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) and 6th Pay Commission arrears. The representatives highlighted that although Order No. GMC/PS/81 dated 16.06.2021 had been issued by the department to facilitate identification and fund allotment, no action or fund release has been taken, so far.

The delegation expressed distress over the prolonged delay, citing that most affected retirees were non-pensionable employees of the erstwhile Government Transport Undertaking (GTU) and are facing serious financial hardships.

Satish Sharma, while assuring full support, stated “the government stands committed to the welfare and dignity of our retired workforce. We acknowledge their years of dedicated service and will take up their case with the concerned on priority. "

The National Youth Corps (NYC) volunteers also met the Minister and urged for regularisation of their services. They pointed out their crucial role in supporting the government initiatives at the grassroots level, especially in rural outreach, COVID management and youth engagement programs.

The Minister assured the NYC volunteers that efforts are being made to formulate a long-term solution in line with policy commitments.

In addition, several deputations from different areas of Jammu and Kashmir met  the Minister and raised demands related to infrastructure development, ration supply improvements, sports infrastructure, youth employment and transport connectivity.

The Minister directed officers to examine the demands raised by the deputations for appropriate redress.

"The present government is committed to inclusive governance and equitable development. Public grievances are being addressed through sustained outreach and responsive administration,” stated the Minister.