Budget Must Reflect People’s Aspirations : CM Omar Abdullah

JAMMU, Jan 21 ; Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday emphasised fiscal discipline, directing all departments to formulate structured, need-based proposals that align with the government’s development roadmap. For the second consecutive day, Abdullah held consultations with several key departments to assess priorities, sectoral requirements, and development imperatives ahead of the upcoming budget session of the J&K Legislative Assembly, scheduled to commence on February 2. The Chief Minister, who also holds the finance portfolio, chaired extensive deliberations with the departments of Social Welfare, Health & Medical Education, School Education, Higher Education, Public Works (Roads & Buildings), Mining, Industries & Commerce, and Labour. Addressing the meeting, Abdullah stated, “Departments should submit well-structured and need-based proposals, aligned with the government’s development roadmap and fiscal discipline.” He stressed that departments must ensure timely completion of projects, transparency in execution, and efficient service delivery. “The budget should reflect the aspirations of the people of J&K and must focus on inclusive growth, balanced regional development, and sustainable economic progress,” the Chief Minister added.During the meetings, Abdullah reviewed sector-wise progress, ongoing projects, budget utilisation, and future requirements. He emphasised the need for realistic and outcome-oriented budgeting, ensuring public funds are channelled toward priority sectors that directly impact citizens’ lives. Directing departments to adopt a people-centric and performance-driven approach, Abdullah stated that the upcoming budget must prioritise strengthening healthcare and education infrastructure, expanding social security coverage, improving road connectivity, promoting industrial growth, and generating employment opportunities for the youth. On Tuesday, the Chief Minister began pre-budget discussions with nine key departments. The consultative process is set to conclude on Thursday with the remaining departments, an official spokesman stated. These pre-budget consultations aim to finalise a comprehensive, growth-oriented, and people-friendly budget for the Union Territory, the spokesman added. (KNS)