Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said the Government is committed to restore full Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, ensure timely elections at all levels to strengthen the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and dignified return of Kashmiri migrants to the Valley by ensuring safe and secure environment.
Addressing the Legislature marking start of first budget session of Omar Abdullah Government in the Central Hall of Legislature, Sinha said one of the foremost aspirations of the people of J&K is restoration of full Statehood and his Government remains steadfast in its commitment to address the legitimate desire of the citizens.
Addressing the first Budget Session of the J-K Assembly in seven years, Sinha said the session is not merely a legislative formality but also a reflection of the Government’s commitment to good governance, transparency and inclusive development.
“My Government recognizes the emotional and political significance of the Statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process in a manner that ensures peace, stability and progress,’’ the Lieutenant Governor said in his about 50 minutes address to the MLAs.
This was the LG’s second address to the Legislature. He addressed the Assembly on start of its first brief five days session on November 4.
With first budget of Omar Government scheduled to be presented by the Chief Minister himself on March 7, the LG’s address had a word of praise for Omar Abdullah saying for the first time, the CM has personally chaired meetings for all 20 districts, separately engaging with elected representatives to understand their aspirations, regional needs and development priorities in budget formulation.
Sinha said this Budget carries historic significance as it is the first in seven years to be presented by an elected Government in J-K.
“It (the Budget) symbolizes the power of the people (and has been) prepared by their elected representatives,” he said.
“Voices of the people are again shaping the allocation of resources and prioritization of development goals. This budget is a true celebration of democracy—an expression of the dreams and expectations of every household, every community and every region of J&K. It marks a moment of renewal and empowerment, where the collective efforts of people’s representatives are shaping future of this land. The budget represents a new era of participatory governance ensuring that the needs and aspirations of common man remain at the heart of policy making,’’ Sinha said.
The LG’s Address to the Legislature is a Government document outlining the ruling party’s programmes and policies.
For the first time this winter, Sinha said, “my Government -through close coordination between the administration and elected representatives took comprehensive measures to minimize disruptions to the daily lives of the people during snowfall.
“This synergy enabled one of the swiftest restorations of essential supplies in Kashmir, including efficient snow clearance. Additionally, the power supply remained one of the most reliable, with minimal interruptions. I extend my sincere appreciation to my Government for their dedication and unwavering commitment to meeting the expectations of the people and ensuring seamless winter, preparedness..
The Lieutenant Governor said the Government remains fully committed to implementing its promises made to the people, as a representation of the people’s aspirations for further political empowerment, and for creating an enabling environment for employment, sustainable development, social inclusiveness and expansion of the economy for enhancing the overall quality of life.
“It will work relentlessly on the three principles of Economy, Ecology and Equity that will shape our future. We commit ourselves to this balance for a better and brighter future for all,’’ he asserted.
“The economy has shown notable growth despite challenges. The Government is working to make Jammu and Kashmir a progressive economy,” he added.
Emphasizing that a free, independent, and responsible press is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy, Sinha said: “My Government remains firmly committed to upholding press freedom, ensuring that journalists can operate in an environment that is secure, transparent, and conducive to free expression. We recognize the vital role of the media in shaping public discourse, holding institutions accountable, and keeping citizens informed. Efforts will continue to strengthen press infrastructure, enhance access to information, and protect the rights of journalists, reaffirming our unwavering dedication to democratic values and an open society. While freedom of expression is fundamental, it must always be exercised with responsibility, keeping the national interest paramount’’.
He reiterated the Government’s commitment to maintaining peace and prosperity and fulfilling promises made to the people.
The Jammu and Kashmir Government is committed to strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies by ensuring timely elections at all levels, Sinha said.
“My Government is committed to strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies by ensuring timely elections at all levels. This will enhance grassroots democracy, promote citizen participation in decision-making and empower local governance for more effective development,” Sinha said.
He said, “My Government has ensured an adequate resource envelope for Panchayati Raj Institutions, enabling them to undertake sustainable and inclusive development in their respective areas. This commitment empowers local governance, strengthens grassroots democracy, and accelerates holistic regional growth.”
Sinha asserted that the Government was committed to the dignified rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants to the Valley by ensuring a safe and secure environment.
“Efforts will be intensified to accelerate the construction of transit accommodation projects for migrant employees, providing them with suitable housing at designated locations. These initiatives reflect our dedication to restoring confidence, fostering inclusivity and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for all communities,” he said.
He underscored the region’s rich composite culture and centuries-old traditions of amity and brotherhood, stressing that the administration is dedicated to preserving unity in diversity.
“We are firmly committed to maintaining peace and harmony — ensuring that the aspirations of our people are protected from divisive influences — and cultivating an inclusive society built on mutual respect and harmony,” he added.
Highlighting his Government’s governance model, Sinha said, “Good governance remains the cornerstone of a prosperous and harmonious future for J-K. My Government is committed to transparent and accountable decision-making, ensuring efficient allocation of resources so that every penny spent benefits the people.”
The LG elaborated on key initiatives, including digital governance, streamlined public service delivery, effective grievance redressal mechanisms and socio-economic programmes aimed at bridging developmental gaps and strengthening public trust.
Sinha highlighted the Government’s initiatives to empower the youth through education, skill development, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“We are building a dynamic ecosystem where the talent and energy of our young generation drive the progress of the region. Our policies focus on youth engagement, employment opportunities and digital transformation,” he said.
He reassured the people that the administration is working alongside the youth to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a hub of opportunity, growth and innovation.
Sinha congratulated the newly elected representatives and urged them to work towards fulfilling the people’s aspirations.
“This session is not just a legislative formality but a reflection of your commitment to good governance, transparency and inclusive development,” he stated.
He said the Government had taken proactive measures to accelerate the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent, merit-based and efficient selection system.
“These efforts aim to streamline appointments across various sectors, providing greater employment opportunities and strengthening the workforce,” he added.
The Government is further strengthening the grievance redress mechanism through ‘JK Samadhan’ and ‘Raabta’, ensuring greater accountability, transparency and fairness in service delivery, Sinha said.
“These initiatives enhance citizen engagement by providing efficient and responsive platforms for addressing public concerns effectively,’’ he added.
The Government is dedicated to strengthening healthcare infrastructure across the Union Territory, ensuring quality, accessible and affordable medical services for all.
“Prestigious institutions such as AIIMS – Jammu and AIIMS – Kashmir, along with newly-established paediatric and cancer hospitals, are transforming tertiary healthcare delivery. The expansion of critical care facilities, dialysis centres and telemedicine services is significantly improving access to affordable and specialized care, ensuring that every citizen benefits from enhanced healthcare facilities,” he said.
Under the universal health coverage scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana SEHAT, 15.35 lakh free treatments have been provided, offering critical medical support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha said.
This initiative has resulted in savings of approximately Rs 2,765 crore in out-of-pocket expenses for patients, ensuring financial protection and improved access to quality health care for all.
To ensure swift and accessible medical assistance, 489 ambulances have been integrated into the 102-108 ambulance network, providing immediate transportation and emergency care, the LG said.
“This initiative has already benefited 4.50 lakh patients, reinforcing my Government’s commitment to strengthening emergency healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor said AIIMS – Kashmir was nearing completion and expected to become operational soon, significantly enhancing healthcare infrastructure in the region.
To further strengthen medical education, the Government is taking steps to increase MBBS and postgraduate seats in the 2025-26 session, expanding opportunities for aspiring doctors, he said.
The Government is intensifying its effort in the fight against substance abuse by expanding functional drug de-addiction centres, reaffirming its commitment to addressing this critical issue, Sinha said.
“This initiative adopts a comprehensive approach focused on rehabilitation, awareness and prevention, with the ultimate goal of creating a drugs-free and healthier society,” he added.
Asserting that the path ahead presents challenges, Sinha said all should work together beyond political affiliations for the welfare of the people and the holistic development of J-K.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the occasion is historic because elected representatives are participating in the Assembly after seven years, ensuring that the voices and aspirations of the people are reflected in the Budget formulation.
“This Budget carries historic significance as it is the first in over seven years to be presented by an elected Government in Jammu and Kashmir. It symbolizes the people’s power as it is prepared by the representatives chosen by the people themselves,” Sinha told the MLAs.
He said it is not merely a financial document but a testament to the aspirations of the masses, reflecting their hopes for a brighter future.
“The path ahead presents challenges but it is also filled with immense opportunities. Together beyond political affiliations, we must work for the welfare of the people and the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
“I am confident that with our collective resolve, we will achieve new milestones and transform Jammu & Kashmir into a beacon of peace, progress, and prosperity”, he said.
Sinha said infrastructure remains a key driver of progress with significant advancements in connectivity. He pointed out recent projects, including the inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel (Z-Morh) and the completion of two segments of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway — Banihal Bypass and Ramban Bypass — which have reduced travel time.
“My Government is committed to fast-tracking major connectivity projects by streamlining land acquisition, securing forest clearances and addressing encroachment issues,” he said, adding the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project has reached a historic milestone and is poised to transform connectivity and development in the region.
To enhance air connectivity, evening flights have been made operational, and the expansion of Jammu Airport is underway to accommodate increased passenger traffic and boost tourism and trade, he said.
Sinha underscored the untapped potential of J-K’s water resources, stating, “My Government is committed to harnessing their full potential so that their economic dividend enhances people’s lives and strengthens J&K’s financial position.”
Tourism, a vital economic pillar, has seen record-breaking visitor numbers in 2024, underscoring the region’s global appeal.
“To further enhance the visitor experience, my Government is implementing innovative projects to diversify tourism offerings while ensuring sustainable tourism practices,” he said.
Regarding the annual Amarnath Yatra, Sinha reiterated the government’s commitment to its smooth conduct.
“Building on the success of last year’s Yatra, my Government will ensure seamless logistics, enhanced infrastructure and eco-friendly initiatives,” he said, adding efforts will balance ecological preservation with an enriching spiritual experience for devotees.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted industrial development under the Rs 28,400-crore Central sector scheme and said 971 units have been registered, with 1,150 more are in process.
“To further accelerate industrial expansion, my Government is expediting infrastructure provision in industrial estates,” he said.
He also emphasized the significance of the handicraft sector which employs over 4.22 lakh people and efforts to boost its market reach.
“To further promote ‘Brand J&K’, my Government is actively facilitating GI tagging for traditional products. Under the Vishwakarma Scheme, 1.19 lakh artisans have received skill training, with J&K ranking third nationwide in training performance,” he said.
The region has also witnessed a surge in handloom and handicraft exports, strengthening local artisans’ livelihoods and positioning J-K as a key player in the global handicrafts market, he said.
“My Government is focusing on transforming Jammu and Kashmir into an educational hub with strategic investments in higher education,” Sinha said, noting that IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu are now operational.
“Jammu University has attained A++ status while the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) leads in skill development and innovation. Faculty from the University of Kashmir has been recognized among the top two per cent of global scientists by Stanford University,” he said.
The Omar Abdullah-led Government will seek the Centre’s support in tapping the full potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s energy sector, Sinha said.
He said Jammu and Kashmir was endowed with an abundance of water resources that were yet to be fully harnessed.
“My Government is committed to harnessing the full potential of these water resources so that their economic dividend enhances people’s lives and Jammu and Kashmir’s financial position. My government will seek the support of the Central Government to make a significant leap in our energy sector,” he said.
Sinha said the Union Territory’s energy sector was undergoing a transformative phase, with the government committed to ensuring early completion of key hydroelectric projects, including the Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar and the Ratle.
“These projects will collectively add 3,014 megawatt capacity, significantly strengthening the region’s energy security. Several other projects such as the Dulhasti-II and the Kirthai-I are in the pipeline, further reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir as a hub of renewable energy,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said significant strides had been made in strengthening the Union Territory’s power infrastructure.
“Transmission capacity has increased 50 per cent with the successful completion of 28 projects. The distribution capacity has gone up 40 per cent with the execution of 194 projects. Additionally, construction of several receiving and grid stations are being expedited by the government, further fortifying the transmission and distribution network, minimizing power losses and enhancing efficiency,” Sinha said.
The Government is committed to installing solar panels on all Government buildings in phases, promoting sustainable energy adoption, he added.
Under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, solar panels are being installed in more than 80,000 households in the Union Territory, ensuring access to affordable and clean energy while advancing the region’s renewable energy goals, Sinha said.
The Government is also committed to achieving 100 per cent smart metering to ensure the reduction of aggregate technical and commercial losses and increasing revenue generation, he added.
