Srinagar, April 09, 2025 – The youth of Jammu & Kashmir are expressing heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his government for unveiling a transformative vision in the Budget 2025, announced on March 7, 2025. With a strong emphasis on startup funds, the ambitious Mission Yuva initiative, and various youth welfare programs, the budget has been hailed as a “big boost for dreams and opportunities” across the Union Territory.
The Rs 1.12 lakh crore budget, the first since the abrogation of Article 370, reflects the National Conference-led government’s commitment to empowering the region’s young population. Speaking at the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, CM Omar Abdullah outlined a roadmap aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, skill development, and economic self-reliance among the youth.
A cornerstone of Budget 2025, Mission Yuva has captured the imagination of Jammu & Kashmir’s youth. The initiative aims to establish 1.37 lakh business units and create employment opportunities for 4.25 lakh young people over the next five years. Building on existing programs like Mumkin, Tejaswani, and Spurring Entrepreneur, Mission Yuva promises to transform the region into a hub for startups and innovation.
The government has also pledged to train 1 lakh youth over five years through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 and PM Vishwakarma, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to meet industry demands.
While specific funding figures for startups are yet to be detailed, the budget’s focus on youth welfare has ignited optimism. CM Abdullah emphasised inclusive growth, announcing measures like free public transport for women starting April 1, 2025, and 200 units of free electricity for Antyodaya Anna Yojana households. These steps are seen as easing financial burdens and enhancing access to education and employment—key priorities for the youth.
Presenting the budget, CM Abdullah described it as “more than just a financial statement—it is a roadmap for a new and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.” With a projected GDP growth of 9.5% for 2025-26 and a fiscal deficit reduced to 3%, the government aims to balance economic stability with social progress. The Rs 41,000 crore in central assistance and an additional Rs 5,000 crore in grants for 2024-25 and 2025-26 further bolster the region’s fiscal position.
For the youth, the budget signals a shift from past challenges toward opportunity. “We’ve faced tough times, but this feels like a fresh start,” said Nusrat Jan, a student leader from Jammu. “The focus on startups and jobs shows the government believes in us.”
While the announcements have been met with enthusiasm, some youth leaders caution that implementation will be key. “The vision is inspiring, but we need to see these funds reach the ground,” said Bilal Rather, a youth activist. The government has yet to release a detailed breakdown of startup allocations, leaving some eager for clarity.
Nevertheless, the Omar Abdullah-led administration’s emphasis on youth empowerment has struck a chord. As Jammu & Kashmir emerges from years of difficulty, Budget 2025 positions the region’s youth as drivers of its future—a sentiment resonating from Srinagar to Jammu and beyond.