A nine-point strategy for peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir, including talks with separatists who eschew violence and road links between the divided parts of the state, was Monday unveiled by the Indian government.
The strategy includes promoting interaction with the people of Pakistan and working towards the opening of three road links between the Indian and Pakistani parts of Kashmir.
These links are between Jammu and Sialkot in Pakistan, Uri and Muzafarabad in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Kargil and Skardu in Pakistan's Northern Areas.
The links would intensify people-to-people contacts and trade, the home ministry said while unveiling the strategy.
According to home ministry officials, the strategy was finalised by Home Minister Shivraj Patil during his visit to the region earlier this month after discussions he had with various sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir.
A statement from the ministry said the government would ensure balanced development of the three regions of the state - Hindu-majority Jammu, the Kashmir Valley that is dominated by Muslims and Buddhist-majority Ladakh.
"The government will expedite completion of infrastructure projects -- railways, roads and power projects, ensure fuller implementation of schemes for development of agriculture, horticulture, tourism, trade, handicrafts and industries with emphasis on provision of basic necessities like drinking water, education, healthcare, women's empowerment and creation of employment opportunities," the statement said.
The government will soon take steps to upgrade security systems by modernising communication equipment, weaponry and training methods of the security forces and intelligence agencies.
It will also take steps for effectively redressing the people's grievances.
The strategy includes promoting culture, tackling unemployment and intensifying the involvement of media in Kashmir's reconstruction process.
Most importantly, the government has said it will take all steps to prevent human rights violations in the militancy-hit region.
"(The government will order) prompt, expeditious and transparent enquiries; take strict action against offenders; reiterate instructions and (ensure) training for humane behaviour by security forces," the statement said.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who visited the state Nov 17-18, had said his government would ensure a development-based programme to bring peace to the state.
Over 40,000 people have lost their lives in the state since a separatist campaign erupted in the Kashmir Valley in 1989.
--Indo-Asian News Service