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| Statehood restoration legitimate aspiration: LG Sinha | | Says Govt committed to development | |  BUDGET SESSION 2025
Early Times Report
Jammu, Mar 3: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, calling it a legitimate aspiration of its citizens.
Speaking at the first budget session under the National Conference-led government, Sinha highlighted the importance of preserving the region’s composite culture and ensuring peace, stability, and progress.
“One of the foremost aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir is the restoration of full statehood. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing this legitimate desire of the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir”, the Lieutenant Governor said.
“The government recognizes the emotional and political significance of Statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process in a manner that ensures peace, stability, and progress”, he assured.
The first budget session of the newly elected Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir commenced today, with the Government highlighting its commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity for the region.
Addressing the House, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated focus of the government on good governance, inclusive development, and participatory budgeting, emphasizing that this budget reflects the aspirations of the people.
HISTORIC BUDGET PRESENTED AFTER SEVEN YEARS
For the first time in over seven years, an elected government in J&K is presenting the budget, making it a historic event. The Chief Minister personally chaired consultations with representatives from all 20 districts to ensure that regional needs and public aspirations are directly reflected in the budget. The Government stressed that this participatory approach marks a new era in governance.
COMMITMENT TO RESTORATION OF STATEHOOD
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to the restoration of full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, acknowledging its emotional and political significance. Efforts are underway to facilitate the process through dialogue with all stakeholders.
WINTER PREPAREDNESS PRAISED
The Government highlighted its winter preparedness, stating that improved coordination between the administration and elected representatives ensured swift restoration of essential services during snowfall, with uninterrupted power supply in many areas.
FOCUS ON ECONOMY, ECOLOGY, AND EQUITY
The Government committed to balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and social equity. It pledged continued reforms to strengthen the region’s fiscal health and ensure transparent governance through digital initiatives and efficient public service delivery.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Push
Key infrastructure projects were highlighted, including the recent inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel and sections of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Rural connectivity is being enhanced through the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, while the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link is nearing completion, promising improved accessibility across the region.
ENERGY SECTOR REVAMP
The Government announced significant progress in hydropower development, with major projects like Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle adding over 3,000 MW of capacity. Solar energy adoption is also being promoted, with solar panels being installed on government buildings and over 80,000 households under the PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
WATER SUPPLY AND IRRIGATION
Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, clean drinking water is being extended to every household, while projects like Shahpur Kandi Dam and New Pratap Canal aim to boost agricultural irrigation.
TOURISM BOOM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
J&K witnessed record-breaking tourist arrivals in 2024. The Government pledged to promote sustainable tourism while ensuring the smooth conduct of the Amarnath Yatra, balancing religious significance with environmental preservation.
Industrial and Handicraft Promotion
The new Central Sector Scheme has driven industrial growth, with over 900 units already registered. Traditional crafts are also being revived through GI tagging and skill development under the Vishwakarma Scheme.
AGRICULTURE MODERNIZATION
The agriculture sector is being transformed through high-density plantations, improved cold storage, and market connectivity. Government initiatives aim to boost farmers' incomes and ensure sustainable practices.
HEALTHCARE EXPANSION
Healthcare infrastructure is receiving a major boost, with AIIMS Jammu already operational and AIIMS Kashmir nearing completion. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat have provided over 15 lakh free treatments, saving residents significant medical expenses.
EDUCATION AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
The education sector is undergoing modernization with smart classrooms, digital learning tools, and skill development programs for youth and women. Educator capacity-building is also a focus, supported by real-time monitoring systems for students and teac "The government recognizes the emotional and political significance of Statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process in a manner that ensures peace, stability, and progress”
WAR ON DRUGS
The Government has intensified its fight against substance abuse, expanding drug de-addiction centers and adopting a comprehensive rehabilitation and awareness strategy.
With a focus on transparency, equitable development, and inclusive growth, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to realizing the aspirations of the people and building a prosperous future for Jammu and Kashmir.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR EWS:
The Jammu and Kashmir government is actively constructing mass housing colonies and flatted accommodations to provide secure and affordable housing for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), aimed at improving urban livability and ensuring dignified housing.
EMPOWERING LOCAL GOVERNANCE:
Adequate financial support has been ensured for Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), enabling them to drive sustainable and inclusive development, strengthening grassroots democracy and regional growth.
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVES:
The government is enhancing projects focused on women’s education, healthcare, nutrition, skill development, and employment, with a strong emphasis on economic independence. Key initiatives have empowered 29,000 ‘Lakhpati Didis’, fostering rural entrepreneurship and financial inclusion.
SOCIAL WELFARE & SAFETY NETS:
Over 9 lakh citizens benefit from social safety nets, including pensions for elderly, widows, and specially-abled individuals, ensuring financial security for vulnerable sections. Supplementary nutrition programs for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children are also being strengthened.
KASHMIRI MIGRANT REHABILITATION:
Efforts are being intensified to rehabilitate Kashmiri migrants by accelerating transit accommodation construction and ensuring a secure environment in the valley, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusivity and long-term peace.
FOOD SECURITY PROGRAMS:
Under the NFSA, 25 lakh families receive ration support, while under PMGKAY, free rations are being provided to 16.62 lakh households, benefiting 66.51 lakh individuals across J&K.
WOMEN-CENTRIC SCHEMES:
Schemes like Ladli Beti (benefiting 1.3 lakh girls) and the Marriage Assistance Program (supporting over 97,000 families) are strengthening social security for women. One-Stop Centres and Women Empowerment Hubs are further enhancing support mechanisms.
RESERVATION BENEFITS EXTENDED:
The government has extended reservation benefits to residents along the International Border, at par with LoC residents. Communities including Paddari, Pahari Ethnic Group, Gadda Brahmin, and Koli have been included as Scheduled Tribes, while the Valmiki community is now part of the Scheduled Castes.
FOCUS ON TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT:
Tribal communities are witnessing unprecedented development through initiatives like the J&K Tribal Research Institute, new hostels, transit accommodations, smart classrooms, and transport support for seasonal migrations. The Forest Rights Act 2006 has also been operationalized.
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT DRIVE:
With a focus on education, skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the government is fostering youth-centric development through initiatives like Mission Youth, Mumkin, Tejaswini, and PARVAZ, alongside the promotion of sports through upgraded infrastructure and events like Khelo India Winter Games.
CULTURAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION:
Efforts are underway to restore heritage sites like Mubarak Mandi Palace, modernize the SRS Library, and create cultural spaces such as a Library-cum-Café, showcasing a commitment to preserving J&K’s rich cultural legacy.
DIGITAL GOVERNANCE REFORMS:
J&K leads digital governance with over 1,100 online services integrated into the e-Unnat portal and more than 500 services linked to a rapid feedback system. Upcoming reforms focus on AI-driven governance insights and expanded internet access.
ENHANCED GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL:
Citizen engagement has been strengthened through platforms like JK Samadhan and Rabta, ensuring transparent and efficient grievance redressal.
REVENUE RECORD DIGITIZATION:
The digitization of land records, including legacy data and GIS-based systems, is enhancing transparency and reducing land disputes.
TRANSPARENT RECRUITMENT PROCESS:
The government is accelerating a transparent, merit-based recruitment process to enhance employment opportunities and workforce strength in the region.
STRENGTHENING GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY:
Timely elections for Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies will ensure stronger citizen participation and effective local governance.
COMMITMENT TO PRESS FREEDOM:
The government reaffirmed its commitment to a free, responsible, and secure press environment, recognizing media’s role in shaping public discourse and ensuring accountability.
HISTORIC ASSEMBLY PARTICIPATION:
For the first time in seven years, elected representatives are part of the Assembly’s budget deliberations, ensuring public aspirations are reflected in policy formulation. The government emphasized collective efforts for peace, progress, and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. |
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