Jammu, March 3: On Monday, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha commended Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for conducting an extensive grassroots exercise, stating that the Jammu and Kashmir Budget is historically significant as it is the first to be introduced by an elected government in more than seven years. Sinha emphasized the need for collaboration beyond political divides for the welfare and comprehensive development of J-K, noting that this moment is historic due to the participation of elected representatives in the Assembly after seven years, which allows for the voices and aspirations of the populace to influence the Budget.
“This Budget represents a historic moment as it is the first presented by an elected government in over seven years, showcasing the power of the people through their chosen representatives,” Sinha articulated to the Legislative Assembly members. He described the Budget as not just a financial plan but a manifestation of the people’s dreams, aimed at a brighter future.
“While the path ahead is fraught with challenges, it also presents vast opportunities. We must work together, transcending political boundaries, for the welfare of our people and the overall development of Jammu and Kashmir,” he stressed. “I am optimistic that our united efforts will lead to new achievements and transform Jammu & Kashmir into a symbol of peace, progress, and prosperity by providing insights into the aspirations of various districts. For the first time, the Chief Minister directly chaired meetings for each of the 20 districts, engaging with elected representatives to grasp their needs and development priorities,” he added.
Sinha remarked that the Budget embodies democratic values and reflects the dreams and expectations of every household, community, and region within J-K. He emphasized a new era of participatory governance that places the common man’s needs and ambitions at the core of policymaking.
He noted that Jammu and Kashmir’s economy has been on an upward trajectory, with significant improvements in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), infrastructure, and socio-economic indicators. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the persistent challenges of regional disparities, unemployment, and sustainable development.
“My administration is devoted to enhancing and reinforcing the development framework to ensure it is robust, balanced, and inclusive, ensuring equitable growth for all,” Sinha affirmed.
He highlighted infrastructure as a vital engine of progress, citing advancements such as the Sonamarg Tunnel (Z-Morh) and the completion of portions of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which have significantly cut travel time. “We are dedicated to expediting major connectivity projects by optimizing land acquisition processes, obtaining necessary forest clearances, and addressing encroachment issues,” he detailed, adding that the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project has reached a landmark phase that will drastically improve connectivity and development in the region.
To boost air travel, Sinha mentioned that evening flights are now operational, and the expansion of Jammu Airport is underway to manage increased passenger traffic while promoting tourism and trade. He also underscored the untapped potential of J-K’s water resources, expressing commitment to harnessing them fully to enhance people’s lives and improve the financial standing of J&K. The tourism sector has witnessed record visitor numbers in 2024, highlighting the region’s global appeal.
“To elevate the visitor experience, my government is implementing innovative projects to diversify tourism offerings, ensuring sustainable practices,” he stated. Regarding the annual Amarnath Yatra, Sinha reiterated the government’s promise to facilitate its smooth operation, citing enhancements in logistics, infrastructure, and green initiatives for a seamless spiritual experience for devotees while preserving the ecology.
He acknowledged the significant strides made in industrial development under a Rs 28,400-crore central sector scheme, with 971 units already registered and an additional 1,150 in process. “To accelerate industrial growth, my government is prioritizing infrastructure development in industrial estates,” he said. He also pointed out the importance of the handicraft sector, which provides jobs for over 422,000 people, and the initiatives aimed at increasing its market reach. “To promote ‘Brand J&K,’ my administration is facilitating GI tagging for traditional products. Additionally, 1.19 lakh artisans have benefitted from skill training under the Vishwakarma Scheme, placing J&K third in India for training performance,” he noted.
The region has also seen a spike in handloom and handicraft exports, bolstering local artisans’ livelihoods and establishing J-K as a central player in the global handicrafts market. “We are striving to make Jammu and Kashmir an educational hub through strategic investments in higher education,” Sinha said, mentioning the operational statuses of IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu. “Jammu University has earned an A++ accreditation, and the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) is leading in skill development and innovation, with faculty from the University of Kashmir recognized among the top two percent of global scientists by Stanford University,” he concluded. (Agencies)
