Jammu, Mar 03: The Budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly began on Monday, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressing the House. This marks the first such session in over seven years, presented by an elected government, which is seen as a significant step in the region’s political revival.
Addressing the opening session in the central hall of the J&K Assembly on Monday, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the historic importance of this budget, emphasising that it reflects the people’s hopes and aspirations.
“This budget is not just a financial document; it is a reflection of the people’s hopes and aspirations,” Sinha said, emphasising the historic significance of the session. The LG also praised the government’s efforts to ensure a smooth winter for the people of Kashmir, with efficient snow clearance and uninterrupted power supply during the harsh season, demonstrating effective governance.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the region’s key aspirations, including the restoration of full statehood. He underscored plans for sustained economic growth, infrastructure development, and social inclusivity, marking the first budget in over seven years
“One of the foremost aspirations of the Jammu and Kashmir people is the restoration of full statehood. My government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing this legitimate desire of the citizens of J-K. We are actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process, ensuring peace, stability, and progress,” said Sinha, underscoring that the path to statehood will be pursued with careful dialogue and cooperation.
The Lieutenant Governor also praised the efforts of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who led a series of district-level consultations to ensure the budget is reflective of the needs and priorities of all regions.
“This budget carries historic significance, as it is the first in over seven years to be presented by an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir. It symbolises the power of the people, as it was prepared by the representatives chosen by the people themselves,” Sinha noted, emphasising the role of grassroots democracy in shaping the governance agenda.
He also underscored efforts for the dignified rehabilitation of migrant Kashmiri Pandits, saying that transit accommodations are being constructed for their safe return.
“We take immense pride in our composite culture and traditions of harmony. The government remains dedicated to preserving peace and fostering an inclusive society built on mutual respect,” he said.
Sinha also highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and urban local bodies. He said that municipal bodies, panchayats, and block development councils in the region have been without elected representatives for more than a year. “My government is committed to strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies by ensuring timely elections at all levels. This will enhance grassroots democracy, promote citizen participation in decision-making, and empower local governance for more effective development,” he said.
He also cited the recent final recommendations of the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Dedicated Backward Classes Commission, which have opened up brighter prospects for local body elections, further reinforcing the government’s dedication to democratic processes.
Sinha also acknowledged the progress made in promoting the rights and welfare of tribal communities through the creation of the J&K Tribal Research Institute, new hostels, and improved educational and transport facilities for seasonal migration. He also pointed to the successful implementation of the Forest Rights Act 2006.
While statehood remains a top priority, Sinha stressed that his government is equally focused on fostering economic growth, infrastructure development, and social inclusivity across Jammu and Kashmir. Highlighting the significance of infrastructure in driving regional progress, Sinha outlined several key projects aimed at improving connectivity, such as the Sonamarg Tunnel and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. “Infrastructure development remains a key driver of progress. My government is committed to fast-tracking major connectivity projects like highways, expressways, and ring roads to ensure timely completion,” he affirmed.
Tourism, a vital pillar of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, saw record-breaking visitor numbers in 2024. “We are implementing innovative projects to diversify tourism offerings while ensuring sustainable tourism practices that preserve the ecological integrity of our destinations,” Sinha stated. He also reassured the Assembly that the government is committed to ensuring smooth logistics, enhanced infrastructure, and eco-friendly initiatives for the annual Amarnath Yatra.
Sinha also emphasised the importance of the region’s handicraft sector, which employs over 4.22 lakh people. He pointed to efforts to boost the global market presence of local crafts through GI tagging and skill development under the Vishwakarma Scheme, which has trained 1.19 lakh artisans.
Additionally, the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link and the ongoing expansion of Jammu Airport were presented as key projects poised to significantly improve transportation and trade links within the region.
On the economic front, Sinha laid out plans for sustainable growth, including harnessing the region’s abundant hydropower potential. “We are focused on harnessing the region’s vast water resources to strengthen energy security,” he said, highlighting key projects like Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Ratle hydropower projects, which are set to add over 3,000 MW of power capacity.
The Lieutenant Governor also spoke of industrial development, with over 971 industrial units already registered under the central sector scheme and another 1,150 units in the pipeline. He emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure in industrial estates to promote growth and job creation.
Sinha’s address also emphasised the government’s concerted efforts to enhance healthcare and education. He pointed to the establishment of AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Kashmir, alongside newly-built pediatric and cancer hospitals, as a testament to the region’s healthcare transformation. “Prestigious institutions like AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Kashmir are transforming tertiary healthcare delivery,” he said.
Under the Ayushman Bharat–SEHAT scheme, over 15.35 lakh free treatments have been provided, saving residents approximately ₹2,765 crore in medical expenses.
“Our focus remains on good governance, digital initiatives, and grievance redressal mechanisms to bridge developmental gaps and enhance accountability,” Sinha said
The focus on education was equally strong, with the Lieutenant Governor noting the government’s goal to transform Jammu and Kashmir into an educational hub. “Jammu University has attained A++ status, and institutions like IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu are now operational,” he said, adding that international recognition of the University of Kashmir’s faculty further underlined the region’s academic growth.
Sinha also discussed the progress made in social welfare, including the PMAY-G housing scheme, where 80% of houses have been completed, and the empowerment of women through schemes like Ladli Beti and Lakhpati Didi, which have directly benefitted thousands of families.
In line with the government’s vision for sustainable development, Sinha spoke about efforts to preserve the region’s cultural heritage and promote environmentally responsible projects. The restoration of heritage sites like the Mubarak Mandi Palace was cited as a priority, alongside support for local artists and the handicraft sector, which employs over 4.22 lakh people in the region.
Additionally, urban development initiatives, such as the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) and the introduction of e-buses and e-rickshaws, were also highlighted as steps toward improving urban mobility and reducing carbon emissions.
Sinha concluded his address by reiterating the importance of transparent and accountable governance. “We remain committed to transparent and accountable decision-making, ensuring that the people of Jammu and Kashmir benefit from every penny spent,” he said, referencing initiatives like JK Samadhan and Rabta, which have strengthened grievance redressal mechanisms.
Later, Sinha expressed optimism for the future of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the importance of unity in achieving shared goals. “The path ahead presents challenges, but it is also filled with immense opportunities. Together, beyond political affiliations, we must work for the welfare of the people and the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir,” he concluded.
Sinha also reiterated his commitment to upholding press freedom, stating, “A free, independent, and responsible press is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy. We will continue to support journalists and ensure a secure and transparent environment for them.”
Earlier, as the Lieutenant Governor began his address, Awami Itehad Party (AIP) legislator Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad staged a protest over the recent civilian deaths in the Baramulla and Kathua districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Carrying a placard, the legislator tried to enter the Central Hall, but was subsequently marshalled out of the House.
