Description
Introduction to Kheri Village
Kheri, a vibrant village located in the Jammu district of Jammu and Kashmir, is known for its rich cultural history and rural charm. Situated about 15 kilometers from Jammu, which serves as both the district and sub-district headquarters, Kheri is a place of historical significance and modern development. The village, with its administrative center in the Jammu tehsil, is home to a population that continues to balance tradition with contemporary progress. Despite its rural nature, the village is well-connected to the larger city of Jammu, making it an integral part of the region.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2011 Census, Kheri village has a population of 775 individuals, with 395 males and 380 females. The total number of households in the village stands at 143. Over the years, the population has seen gradual growth, and more recent estimates suggest that the village's population has expanded to 1,708 by 2020. This increase in population highlights the growing importance of Kheri within the region. The child population (ages 0-6) constitutes 12.13% of the total population, with a sex ratio of 962, which is notably higher than the state average of 889, reflecting a positive trend in gender equality in the village.
Literacy and Education
Kheri's literacy rate stands at a relatively low 39.06% according to the 2011 census, with male literacy at 44.67% and female literacy at 33.23%. However, there are signs of gradual improvement, as the village has seen increased efforts in education. The male literacy rate surpasses the female rate, which is a common trend in many rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite these challenges, the villagers continue to prioritize education, and several initiatives are in place to enhance literacy rates among both boys and girls.
Economic Activities and Occupation
The primary sources of livelihood for the residents of Kheri are agriculture and small-scale employment. A significant portion of the population is engaged in farming, with 279 individuals working as cultivators and another 90 as agricultural laborers. This reflects the rural nature of the village, where agriculture remains the cornerstone of its economy. Other occupations include household industries, with 26 individuals involved in local crafts and trades, and a variety of other workers contributing to the village's economy.
Work Profile and Employment
Out of Kheri’s total population, 193 individuals are employed in main work activities, which account for 85.49% of the workforce. Only a small portion, 14.51%, is engaged in marginal work, providing livelihoods for less than six months. The work profile reflects the predominance of agricultural activities, although a small number of villagers are engaged in household industries and other employment sectors. Main workers, including cultivators and agricultural laborers, make up a large proportion of the workforce, underscoring the agricultural dependence of Kheri’s economy.
Caste Composition
Kheri’s demographic makeup is predominantly from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category, which constitutes about 84.26% of the population. The village also has a smaller portion of Scheduled Caste (SC) population, accounting for 10.06% of the total population. This caste composition is reflective of the region’s traditional social structure, where the Scheduled Tribe community plays a significant role in the village’s cultural and social fabric.
Connectivity and Infrastructure
Kheri enjoys a strategic location that offers convenient connectivity to the surrounding areas. The village is served by both public and private bus services, making it accessible to nearby towns and cities. The nearest railway station is situated around 6 kilometers away in Bari Brahman, while Jammu Airport, located approximately 12.27 kilometers from the village, serves as the closest air transport hub. These transport links ensure that Kheri is well-connected for both economic and social activities.
Health and Welfare Services
Although Kheri has a basic healthcare infrastructure, such as a Government Primary Health Care Center, the overall health services in the village are limited. There is no detailed information about advanced medical facilities, but the villagers typically rely on nearby towns for more specialized healthcare services. This reflects the broader issue of rural healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir, where access to quality health services remains a challenge for many remote areas.
Village Administration and Governance
Kheri village is governed by a Sarpanch, an elected representative who plays a pivotal role in managing the village's affairs. The Sarpanch is responsible for overseeing local governance, ensuring the implementation of government schemes, and addressing the concerns of the villagers. As part of the Raipur Domana Vidhan Sabha constituency and Jammu Lok Sabha constituency, Kheri participates in the democratic processes at both the state and national levels, with regular elections ensuring that the voice of the village is heard.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Despite its rural location, Kheri is poised for gradual development, especially in the areas of infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The increase in population suggests a growing demand for services and better amenities, and with greater investment, Kheri could see significant improvements. However, challenges such as low literacy rates, limited healthcare, and reliance on agriculture remain critical areas for future development. With the right support and initiatives, Kheri can continue its journey toward progress while maintaining its rich cultural heritage.
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Contact Information
Address |
Bantlab road pin code 181132 |
Phone Number |
8082212063 |
Email Address | |
Website | https://jkpanchayat.jk.gov.in/homeview.php?panchayat=Keran&block=Keran |