New Delhi, 20 Oct (KNN) Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs Piyush Goyal inaugurated 250mm Seer Water supply scheme as a part of the public outreach programme of the central government.

The project will benefit around 10000 people and will be completed under the ambit of Jal Jeevan Mission within three months.

He also inaugurated tourist hut of Pahalgam Development Authority at Golf Course Pahalgam, and Forest Departments Deodar sapling plantation drive being conducted under the banner of Green JK Drive.

Total 1 lakh saplings will be planted as part of the drive. Enquiring about post plantation care for the saplings, the minister was apprised that fencing and other appropriate watch and ward measures are taken.

Commerce Minister Goyal also visited Rahi Shawl Unit located at Akad Park. He interacted with the local artisans and examined various handicrafts like zari, sozni, tapestry, etc. The minister appreciated the intricate work being put up by the artisans. He said that handicrafts of Kashmir tell a symbolic story and the government is committed to ensure this story reaches all parts of the world.

Addressing a gathering at Pahalgam, the Union minister thanked the people of Kashmir for their participation in the development process and appreciated their dedication towards promotion of tourist activity.

He said that the concerted efforts of the government of UT of Jammu and Kashmir towards development have started bearing fruit and investors from rest of the country and abroad are eager to invest in the UT.

The minister discussed developments in the tourism landscape and was happy to observe that there is brisk tourist activity in Pahalgam. He highlighted the need to up the tourist infrastructure to attract more foreign tourists.

He appreciated the rapid pace of developmental works and commended the frontline workers for working towards realizing the Prime Minister's dream of tap water for all households.

Principal Secretary, Commerce and Industries, DC Anantnag and other officials of the district administration were present on the occasion.