Calling upon all Members of the Legislative Assembly to work together in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday urged them to collectively strive to build a peaceful and progressive Jammu and Kashmir.
“Let us move forward with unity of purpose, transform challenges into opportunities, and collectively strive to build a Jammu and Kashmir that is peaceful, progressive, inclusive, and prosperous, ensuring dignity, opportunity, and hope for every citizen,” Lieutenant Governor Sinha said in his address on the opening day of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Session here.
Sinha noted that the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly holds special significance, as it offers an opportunity to reflect on the collective journey, review achievements, and chart a clear roadmap for the future.
“It also provides a moment to reaffirm our shared commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
“For me, this occasion represents not merely an accounting of resources or outcomes, but a reflection of our vision for a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
LG Sinha asserted that the past year marks a significant milestone in the democratic journey of Jammu and Kashmir with the formation of an elected Government after a gap of several years, adding, “This transition to popular governance has strengthened public faith in democratic institutions. My Government has focused on restoring participatory governance, rebuilding public confidence, and ensuring that the voice of every region and community finds expression in policy making.”
“The development trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir continues to be guided by the foundational principles of Economy, Ecology, and Equity. These principles are not merely aspirational, but serve as the guiding framework for policy formulation and implementation,” he added.
Sinha said that good governance continues to be the cornerstone of the Government’s development strategy in Jammu and Kashmir, adding, “sustained reforms in transparency, accountability, digital governance, and citizen-centric service delivery have significantly strengthened public trust and institutional efficiency.”
“The digital transformation has imparted new momentum to development and reinforced corruption-free governance, with over 1,500 public services available online and 391 services integrated with the auto-appeal system to ensure timely delivery,” he said.
“The economy of Jammu and Kashmir has demonstrated encouraging momentum in recent years. The union Territory is presently recording an annual nominal growth rate of around 11 percent (2024-25), reflecting the positive outcomes of sustained policy reforms, enhanced infrastructure development, and proactive investment facilitation,” he added.
Sinha further stated that the Government remains committed to consolidating this growth trajectory through strengthened fiscal discipline and by creating diversified and sustainable employment opportunities, with particular emphasis on youth and women.
The 23-day Legislative Assembly session of the union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir commenced today with the Lieutenant Governor’s Address to the House at the Civil Secretariat.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government will present its budget in the House on February 6. Abdullah also holds the portfolio of the Finance Department.
This is the fifth session of the Assembly, spread over a three-month period in phases. It will be the second budget of the Omar Abdullah-led National Conference government after assuming office on October 16, 2024, ending nearly six years of central rule.
As per the calendar of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly issued by Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, the Budget Session will conclude on April 4. The session is being held in three phases: the first phase started today and will be held before the commencement of Ramzan (expected to begin on February 18 or 19, subject to the sighting of the moon), and the remaining two phases will follow after Eid-ul-Fitr in March and April.
The budget presentations will be followed by a general discussion on the Budget and the government’s response.
The April session will have Private Members’ Bills and Resolutions alongside government business.
