To reuse site, Khattar seeks report on old Nilokheri press
Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar visited the site of the old government printing press in Nilokheri on Friday and directed officials to prepare and submit a detailed report on the land with documents to his office so that possible development opportunities could be explored.
“The land spans 35 acres and once housed a functioning government printing press, which has been shut for many years. Since the land is under the jurisdiction of the Centre, a proper plan can be made to put it to productive use. A proposal would be submitted to the state government to consider transferring the land to a suitable department at a fair price, so it can be put to productive use and help generate employment opportunities,” said Khattar while interacting with mediapersons.
He also instructed the Nilokheri SDM to prepare a map of the site and send the report at the earliest to expedite the process.
After the inspection, the Union Minister also visited the grain market in Nilokheri where he interacted with farmers and arhtiyas. He inquired about the procurement process, availability of gunny bags and other logistical arrangements. He also inspected wheat heaps and assessed moisture levels in the grains.
Speaking with farmers present at the mandi, he assured them that no inconvenience would be allowed in the wheat procurement process. “All necessary measures are in place to ensure smooth procurement. If you face any issues, do not hesitate to report those,” he said.
Khattar stopped at Nilokheri while going to Chandigarh and took time to inspect wheat grains scattered along the roadside. He expressed concern about the safety of the harvested grain and announced that the local grain market in Nilokheri would soon be shifted to a new location to ensure that farmers’ produce is kept safe and farmers do not face any inconvenience.
Khattar praised the quality of the wheat crop this season and advised farmers to take extra care for the next two to three days to avoid any potential loss. He assured that the government is actively working to support farmers during the harvesting season.
Commenting on the public demand for a stoppage of the Vande Bharat train bound for Vaishno Devi at Karnal station, Khattar said, “We received a formal request and I have written to the Railways Department regarding it. As soon as there is a response, we will inform the public.”
