Jammu, Mar 10: National Conference (NC) Additional General Secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra on Monday hailed the J&K Budget 2025-26, presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, as a “bold and people-centric financial roadmap despite the economic challenges inherited from the previous regime”.
“Despite empty coffers, the government has taken a big leap forward in fulfilling its election promises, demonstrating its commitment to public welfare and inclusive development,” Sadhotra said while addressing a workers’ meeting at Basohli which was organized by Block President Raja Rafiq.
He particularly lauded two key provisions in the budget – 200 units of free electricity per month for domestic consumers and 10 kg of free Ration for Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families – as major relief measures for economically weaker sections. “These initiatives reflect the National Conference’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring basic necessities like power and food security for the needy people,” he added.
The NC leader referred to the other initiatives like focus on farmers and rural development, saying to support the agricultural community, the budget provides for interest-free crop loans and subsidies on fertilisers besides irrigation facilities to ensure uninterrupted water supply for farming activities, which he said will go a long way in giving a boost to growth and fillip to farmer’s economy.
Sadhotra exuded confidence that the government will create thousands of job opportunities in various sectors, ensuring merit-based and transparent recruitment. He lauded the proposal of launching special training initiatives to equip youth with modern skills, enhancing their employability in both government and private sectors.
The former minister hailed the extension of universal health insurance coverage for BPL families to ensure that economically weaker sections receive free medical treatment.
He described as a game-changer the Omar Abdullah government’s significant fund allocation for the modernisation of government schools, colleges and technical institutes to enhance the quality of education besides the expansion of road networks. He also welcomed the “path-breaking” initiatives for promoting Basohli tourism.
Sadhotraurged the people to strengthen the National Conference to enable it to continue serving the people and fulfilling their aspirations.
“The National Conference has always stood for the rights and welfare of the people and has chartered a mission to build a prosperous and self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
