Jammu, Mar 3: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said the government is steadfast in its commitment to restoring the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir.
“One of the foremost aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir is the restoration of full statehood. My Government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing this legitimate desire of the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. 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,” Sinha said, addressing the budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
Sinha said that the budget represents a new era of participatory governance, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of the common people remain at the heart of policy-making.
“We take immense pride in our composite culture and centuries-old traditions of brotherhood. My government is committed to preserving the unity and diversity that define Jammu and Kashmir. It is formally committed to maintaining peace and harmony, ensuring that the aspirations of our people are
The LG emphasized that good governance remains the cornerstone of Jammu and Kashmir’s prosperous and harmonious future.
“My government remains committed to transparent and accountable decision-making, ensuring efficient and effective allocation of resources so that the people of J&K fully benefit from every penny spent. The economy of J&K has experienced notable growth in recent years, reflected in key indicators such as rising Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), infrastructure advancement, and an improved socioeconomic index. However, this progress has not been achieved without challenges. Issues such as regional disparities, unemployment, and sustainable development need to be addressed,” he said.
He hailed the recent inauguration of the Sonmarg Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13.
“Infrastructure development remains a key driver of progress. The Prime Minister’s recent inauguration of the Sonmarg Tunnel, along with the completion of two segments of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, has substantially reduced travel time. My government remains committed to fast-tracking major connectivity projects by streamlining land acquisitions, securing forest clearances, and addressing encroachment issues. Ongoing projects such as expressways, highways, and ring roads for Jammu and Srinagar will be accelerated to ensure their timely completion,” Sinha said.
He said the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project has reached a historic milestone with the completion of its final segment, poised to transform connectivity and development in Jammu and Kashmir, integrating Jammu and Kashmir more closely with the rest of the nation.
Sinha said that the reservation of seats for other Backward Classes in Panchayats, Municipalities, and Municipal Corporations has also been granted.
“Reservation of seats in the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir has been granted by the Government to the persons belonging to Scheduled Tribes,” he said, adding that persons residing in areas adjoining the International Border have been given benefits of reservation by the Government, at par with residents of LoC Areas.
“Paddari tribe, ‘Pahari Ethnic Group, Gadda Brahmin and Koli have been included as Scheduled Tribes. Valmiki Community has also been included in the SC category, “he added.
The LG said the government is committed to the dignified rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants back into 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 in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Sinha noted that the government will seek the support of the Government of India for a significant leap forward in our energy sector.
“This sector in Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a transformative phase with my government committed to ensure an early completion of key hydro power projects. These projects will collectively add 3,014MW of capacity, significantly strengthening the region’s energy security and benefiting the people,” he said.