Jammu Feb 2 : Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday outlined a comprehensive vision for a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Union Territory while addressing the Legislative Assembly at the commencement of the Budget Session. Describing the occasion as a milestone in J&K’s democratic journey, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the return of an elected government after several years and said it has strengthened public faith in democratic institutions
The Lieutenant Governor said the government’s development strategy is anchored on the principles of Economy, Ecology and Equity, with a strong emphasis on good governance, transparency and citizen-centric service delivery. He noted that more than 1,500 public services are now available online and thousands of grievances have been resolved through digital platforms and outreach programmes, bringing governance closer to the people.
Highlighting economic performance, Shri Sinha said Jammu & Kashmir is among the fastest-growing Union Territories, recording an annual nominal growth rate of around 11 per cent. GST collections, power tariff revenues and direct benefit transfers have shown steady improvement, with ₹9,000 crore transferred directly to beneficiaries through DBT schemes in the current financial year.
Infrastructure development featured prominently in the address. The Lieutenant Governor detailed massive investments in roads, tunnels, railways, airports and power projects, including the completion of key tunnels and the historic rail connectivity of the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country. He said these projects are transforming connectivity, logistics and economic opportunities across the region.
Tourism, agriculture, healthcare, education and industry were identified as key pillars of growth. The Lieutenant Governor said the Union Territory recorded 1.78 crore tourist visits in 2025, while initiatives like the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, expansion of medical and educational infrastructure, and industrial incentives are generating employment and strengthening livelihoods. Special focus has been laid on youth empowerment through Mission YUVA, women’s welfare, tribal rights, social security and housing for the poor.
Concluding his address, Shri Manoj Sinha called upon members of the House to work together with unity of purpose. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combining development with dignity, growth with social justice, and progress with peace, to build a Jammu and Kashmir that offers opportunity, security and hope to every citizen
