Jammu, Feb 2: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said the Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly holds special significance as it provides an opportunity to reflect on the collective journey so far, review achievements and chart a clear roadmap for the future, while reaffirming commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people of the Union Territory.
Addressing the House at the commencement of the Budget Session, LG Sinhasaid the occasion goes beyond a mere accounting of resources and outcomes and reflects the vision of building a prosperous, inclusive and resilient Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed gratitude to citizens from all walks of life—farmers, workers, youth, women, entrepreneurs, professionals, security personnel and public servants—terming their contribution as the foundation of the UT’s progress.
The Lieutenant Governor said the past year marked a significant milestone in J&K’s democratic journey with the formation of an elected government after several years, strengthening public faith in democratic institutions. He said the government has focused on participatory governance, restoring public confidence and ensuring that voices from every region and community are reflected in policymaking. He added that development in J&K continues to be guided by the principles of Economy, Ecology and Equity, with sustained efforts aimed at balanced and environmentally sustainable growth.
Highlighting governance reforms, LG Sinha said transparency, accountability, digital governance and citizen-centric service delivery have strengthened institutional efficiency. He informed the House that over 1,500 public services are now available online, with 391 services integrated with an auto-appeal system. He said the UT recorded 82 crore e-transactions in the past year, while ₹9,000 crore was transferred directly to beneficiaries under DBT schemes, benefiting nearly 80 lakh people.
On the economic front, the Lieutenant Governor said Jammu and Kashmir is among the fastest-growing UTs, recording around 11 percent nominal growth in 2024–25. He cited growth in GST collections, power tariff revenues and capital investment support, adding that infrastructure development—particularly in roads, railways, tunnels, airports and power—has emerged as a key driver of transformation. He also highlighted progress in tourism, agriculture, healthcare, education, urban development, housing, industry, handicrafts and social welfare sectors.
Emphasising youth and women empowerment, LG Sinha said Mission YUVA, livelihood schemes, self-help groups, sports initiatives and skill development programmes are transforming job seekers into job creators. He said transparent recruitment, compassionate appointments, welfare reforms and free public transport for women reflect the government’s humane and inclusive approach.
Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon all members of the House to work together in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility to build a peaceful, progressive and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir that ensures dignity, opportunity and hope for every citizen. (KNC)
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