Srinagar, Feb 02: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said the Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly marks an important opportunity to review the Union Territory’s progress and chart a clear roadmap for the future, asserting that the government remains committed to fulfilling the aspirations of the people through inclusive and transparent governance.
Addressing the Assembly at the start of the Budget Session, Sinha said the formation of an elected government after several years represents a significant milestone in Jammu and Kashmir’s democratic journey. He said the transition has strengthened public faith in democratic institutions and restored participatory governance.
The Lieutenant Governor said the administration has focused on rebuilding public trust, ensuring representation of all regions, and making policymaking more responsive to people’s needs. He stressed that transparency, accountability, and digital governance continue to remain central to the government’s development strategy.
Sinha said more than 1,500 public services have been brought online, enabling citizens to access government services with ease. He added that grievance redressal platforms such as JK Samadhan have helped resolve thousands of complaints within fixed timelines, bringing governance closer to the public.
On the economic front, the Lieutenant Governor said Jammu and Kashmir is among the fastest-growing Union Territories, recording annual growth of around 11 per cent. He pointed to increased GST collections, improved fiscal discipline, and higher capital expenditure as indicators of economic stability.
Highlighting infrastructure as a key driver of growth, Sinha said major investments are being made in roads, tunnels, railways, airports, and power projects to improve connectivity and support regional development.
He also referred to reforms in the power sector, including the expansion of renewable energy and efforts to ensure reliable electricity supply, particularly during winter months. Initiatives such as smart metering and the solarisation of government buildings and households, he said, are helping reduce losses and strengthen energy security.
Tourism, agriculture, healthcare, education, and industry were identified as priority sectors. Sinha said tourism has been granted industry status to attract investment and create employment opportunities. He said agriculture is being modernised under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme to enhance productivity and farmer incomes.
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted progress in healthcare infrastructure, including the establishment of AIIMS, new medical colleges, and the expansion of digital health services.
Reaffirming the government’s focus on social welfare, women empowerment, youth entrepreneurship, and tribal welfare, Sinha called upon members of the Assembly to work collectively to build a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir that ensures dignity and opportunity for all citizens.(KNS).
