Jammu, February 2,2026-The Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly commenced on a significant note, with the Lieutenant Governor outlining a comprehensive vision for a prosperous, inclusive and resilient Jammu and Kashmir, reaffirming the government’s commitment to democratic governance, economic growth and people-centric development.
Addressing the House, the Lieutenant Governor said the session was not merely an exercise in accounting but an opportunity to reflect on the Union Territory’s collective journey, assess achievements and chart a clear roadmap for the future in line with the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Return of Elected Government Strengthens Democracy
Calling the past year a historic milestone, the LG highlighted the formation of an elected government after several years, describing it as a major step in strengthening democratic institutions and restoring public faith. He said the government has prioritised participatory governance, ensuring that voices from all regions and communities are reflected in policymaking.
Economy, Ecology and Equity as Guiding Principles
The development strategy of Jammu and Kashmir, he said, continues to be guided by the core principles of Economy, Ecology and Equity, ensuring balanced, inclusive and environmentally sustainable growth. While acknowledging progress across sectors, the government remains focused on sustained reforms to address regional and social disparities.
Governance Reforms and Digital Transformation
Good governance remains the cornerstone of the administration’s strategy. The Lieutenant Governor noted major strides in transparency, accountability, digital governance and citizen-centric service delivery, with over 1,500 public services available online and 391 services integrated with auto-appeal systems.
He said grievance redressal mechanisms such as the JK Samadhan portal and regular outreach meetings have ensured governance reaches citizens’ doorsteps, resolving thousands of public grievances through time-bound interventions.
Strong Economic Momentum and Revenue Growth
Highlighting economic performance, the LG said Jammu and Kashmir is recording an annual nominal growth rate of around 11 percent (2024–25), driven by infrastructure expansion, policy reforms and investment facilitation. He noted steady growth in GST collections, increased power tariff revenues and extended Special Assistance to States for Capital Infusion (SASCI), with ₹1,431 crore sanctioned for capital projects.
Reforms in Jammu and Kashmir Bank were also credited for improving capital adequacy and reducing non-performing assets.
Infrastructure Push Transforms Connectivity
Infrastructure development continues to be a major growth driver, with investments exceeding ₹61,500 crore in road projects, including expressways, national highways, tunnels and ring roads. Completion of key tunnels and progress on strategic projects like the Zojila Tunnel were highlighted as game changers for all-weather connectivity.
The Lieutenant Governor also described the railway connectivity of Kashmir Valley, operationalisation of the first FCI freight train, expansion of Jammu Airport, and the sanctioning of a full-fledged Railway Division as milestones in regional integration.
Power, Water and Renewable Energy Initiatives
The power sector has undergone structural transformation, with major hydropower projects under execution and large-scale installation of smart prepaid meters, reducing losses and improving revenue realisation. Solarisation under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has strengthened renewable energy adoption, including approval for providing 200 free electricity units to eligible families.
Significant progress was also reported under the Jal Jeevan Mission, ensuring tap water connections to rural households and strengthening irrigation through projects like Shahpur Kandi Dam.
Tourism, Agriculture and Allied Sectors
Tourism remains a vital pillar of the J&K economy, with 1.78 crore tourist visits recorded in 2025. The government has accorded industry status to tourism, promoted year-round destinations and launched initiatives like the Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood Chrysanthemum Garden to attract visitors during lean seasons.
Agriculture and allied sectors have seen transformation under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), with increased CA storage capacity, e-NAM integration, crop diversification, growth in honey, fish and oilseed production, and GI tagging of traditional products.
Healthcare, Education and Urban Development
Healthcare infrastructure has expanded significantly with AIIMS Jammu, upcoming AIIMS Kashmir, new medical seats, critical care blocks and advanced diagnostic facilities. Digital health initiatives like the SEHAT App and Tele-ICUs have improved access to specialised care.
In education, implementation of the National Education Policy, establishment of Atal Tinkering Labs, ICT infrastructure and NAAC accreditation for universities and colleges reflect the government’s focus on academic excellence.
Urban development has progressed through the Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT and Swachh Bharat Mission, improving sanitation, waste management, mobility and urban infrastructure.
Industry, Handicrafts and Social Welfare
The LG highlighted strong industrial growth, with over 2,200 industrial units operational, growth in startups including women-led enterprises, and sustained support to the handloom and handicrafts sector, which supports nearly 4.45 lakh livelihoods.
Social welfare remains central to governance, with enhanced pensions, housing under PMAY, free ration under NFSA and PMGKAY, land allotment for disaster-affected families and targeted support for women, elderly and vulnerable communities.
Youth Empowerment and Sports
Youth empowerment initiatives under Mission YUVA aim to create 1.35 lakh entrepreneurial units and generate employment for 4.5 lakh youth, supported by skilling, credit access and mentorship. Sports infrastructure development and hosting of national events are positioning Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging sports hub.
Commitment to Inclusive and Peaceful Progress
Concluding the address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon all members of the House to work together with unity of purpose to build a peaceful, progressive and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring dignity, opportunity and hope for every citizen.
