Jammu, December 27,2025-Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the construction of 320 houses for families whose homes were completely damaged due to recent flash-floods and landslides in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The project, estimated at Rs 32 crore, will be fully financed by High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India), ensuring rehabilitation of affected families without any burden on the government exchequer. The initiative aims to provide modern, prefabricated three-bedroom ‘Smart Houses’, designed to be resilient, technologically advanced and suitable for rural livelihoods.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that with the support of HRDS India, the administration’s vision is to ensure that no family affected by natural calamities remains weak or disadvantaged.
“Houses for affected families are not just walls and roofs; they are the embodiment of dreams and aspirations and the foundation for quality living and personal growth,” he said.
Terming the initiative a new model for the country, LG Sinha noted that it demonstrates how collective efforts can uplift needy families without government funding. “It gives us a powerful mantra that all should work together for the common good of the UT of J&K and its people,” he added.
The houses are scheduled to be completed within six months and will include cowsheds to support rural livelihoods. In addition, HRDS India will provide a comprehensive social security package, including 15 years of free life insurance, annual health check-ups, and maintenance of houses for five years.
The Lieutenant Governor praised Swami Atma Nambi, President HRDS India, and the NGO’s members for their selfless service. He recalled that earlier, foundation stones were laid for 1,869 houses for families affected by Pakistani shelling during Operation Sindoor and recent natural calamities across eight districts of Jammu division.
Reiterating his commitment to speedy and all-round development of Jammu and Kashmir, LG Sinha said that over the past five years, the UT has integrated physical, social and digital infrastructure with a people-first approach. He also highlighted ongoing and upcoming projects in Reasi district aimed at improving connectivity and ease of living.
Addressing long-pending demands, the Lieutenant Governor assured that work on the underground sewerage system for Katra town would commence within six months, while the Master Plan for Katra is in its final stage of approval. Efforts are also underway for the establishment of an Inter-modal Station.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board for its role in rescue and relief operations and highlighted its initiatives, including temple construction, promotion of Sanskrit and Vedic education, support to local SHGs, reconstruction of flood-damaged schools, pilgrim welfare measures, and community development programmes.
Senior civil and police officers, elected representatives, and members of social and political organisations were present during the foundation stone laying ceremony
