Stakeholder inputs to shape Budget 2026–27 priorities: CM Omar

By RK News
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28 Jan 2026

Jammu, Jan 27: Continuing the pre-budget consultation process ahead of the Budget Session for 2026–27, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a series of extensive meetings in Jammu with stakeholders from diverse sectors as well as elected representatives from Jammu and Samba districts. In the first consultation, the Chief Minister interacted with representatives from industry and trade, tourism, hotel and hospitality, education, youth affairs and agriculture. The meeting was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javid Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma, along with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, senior officers from the Finance Department, heads of departments and other concerned officials. During the interaction, stakeholders raised sector-specific issues and offered suggestions aimed at accelerating inclusive growth and balanced regional development. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored that the pre-budget consultations are not ceremonial exercises but play a crucial role in shaping government priorities. “These consultations have been going on for many years, and they have real impact. If we were not serious about your suggestions, the entire senior leadership of the government would not be present here,” he said, adding that stakeholder engagement helps bridge the gap between official assessments and ground realities. He assured participants that the dialogue would continue beyond the annual budget exercise and that all constructive inputs would be carefully examined and reflected, wherever possible, in budgetary decisions and policy formulation. Later in the day, the Chief Minister chaired a separate pre-budget consultation meeting with Members of the Legislative Assembly from Jammu and Samba districts as part of the government’s efforts to formulate a people-friendly and development-oriented budget. The meeting was attended by MLAs from both districts, senior ministers and top administrative officers, including Deputy Commissioners of Jammu and Samba. Outstation officers participated through video conferencing. During the discussion, sector-wise priorities, district-specific development needs and policy interventions for balanced growth were deliberated upon. The MLAs highlighted demands related to road infrastructure, healthcare and educational upgradation, sports facilities, drinking water supply, tourism development and establishment of new colleges and schools. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated that these consultations are part of a continuous process aimed at meaningful participation of elected representatives. He clarified that constituency-specific issues would be addressed during budget discussions in the Assembly when departmental grants are presented. Referring to the flood relief assistance received from the Government of India following last year’s devastating floods, the Chief Minister emphasized transparency and accountability in fund utilisation. “The ₹1,430 crore flood relief amount will not be distributed constituency-wise. Its allocation will be strictly based on the extent of damage and sectoral requirements,” he said, assuring that the funds would be used in a transparent and time-bound manner. The Chief Minister concluded by assuring both stakeholders and legislators that all genuine concerns and constructive suggestions would be duly examined and reflected in the upcoming budget to ensure inclusive and regionally balanced development across Jammu and Kashmir.