Srinagar, Mar 10: “National Conference has emerged as a powerful voice for the downtrodden and marginalised communities. The budgetary allocations serve as a testament to this fact,” NC Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir said on Monday.
Addressing a meeting of the party’s functionaries from Budgam, Kupwara at the party headquarters Nawa-e-Subha here, Mir emphasised the deep-rooted history of NC in serving the interests of those at the lowest rung of the economic ladder.
“The focus has always been on the poorest of the poor, and the recent budget presented by Omar Sahib is a clear testament to our commitment to improving the conditions of the underprivileged. The budget, with a focus on AAY beneficiaries, free bus rides for women, Rs 390.20 crore for tourism, increased pension amounts, and more, serves as a roadmap for a new and prosperous J&K,” he said.
Mir said the government has reached out to the population below the poverty line, particularly those registered under the Antyodaya Anna Yojna (AAY). The initiatives announced include free ration of 10 kilograms per person for AAY beneficiaries, increased financial assistance under the Marriage Assistance Scheme for AAY category girls, and 200 units of free electricity per month for all AAY families.
“All government-owned public transport buses, including e-buses, will be free for women. Stamp duty on property gifted to relatives has been reduced to zero, aiming to benefit families by promoting legal documentation and reducing inheritance disputes,” he added.
Praising the budget, the NC leader highlighted the proposed increase in widow and old age pensions, as well as the raise in marriage assistance for poor families. “The J&K government has also suggested zero stamp duty for property transfers to relations, along with plans for a National Law University and J&K Skill and Entrepreneurship University. This comprehensive and thoughtful budget reflects the government’s dedication to uplifting the marginalised and creating a more prosperous future for all in J&K,” he said.
