Insurance for Horticulture, Digital Education Push and Major Health Infra Announced
Jammu/
The Jammu and Kashmir Budget for 2026–27 outlines a comprehensive roadmap for inclusive development, placing agriculture, education, youth employment, and healthcare at the centre of policy planning. The budget aims to strengthen grassroots infrastructure while addressing long-standing regional and sectoral gaps across the Union Territory.
Agriculture and Rural Economy Get Major Boost
Agriculture and allied sectors remain a key priority in the budget, with special focus on horticulture and rural prosperity. The government has announced crop insurance coverage for major horticultural crops including apple, saffron, mango, and litchi, offering much-needed protection to farmers against climate uncertainties and market volatility.
To reduce post-harvest losses and increase farmer incomes, the budget proposes expansion of Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities, particularly in districts that remain under-served. Strengthening the value chain from farm to market is expected to improve price realization for growers.
The budget also promotes modern agricultural practices, including the adoption of micro and sprinkler irrigation systems for efficient water management. Cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants has been encouraged as an alternative income source. In the livestock sector, Embryo Transfer Technology laboratories are planned in every district to enhance animal genetics and productivity. A renewed push for achieving ODF-Plus status reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable rural sanitation and infrastructure.
Education and Youth Empowerment in Focus
The education sector receives special attention with initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide. JK e-Pathshala DTH channels will be launched for Classes 1 to 12, enabling students to access digital learning content without internet connectivity.
Early childhood education is set to improve through the upgradation of Anganwadi Centres into modern Bal Vidyalayas. The budget also emphasizes student well-being by providing indoor sports and recreational facilities in all government schools.
To tackle unemployment, the government has proposed priority hiring of local youth in industries availing government concessions, a move expected to enhance employment opportunities for residents of the Union Territory.
Strengthening Healthcare and Critical Services
Healthcare infrastructure sees significant expansion under the new budget. Lal Ded Hospital will be upgraded with advanced IVF and NICU facilities, while a new Mother and Child Hospital will be established at GMC Anantnag.
Critical care services will be strengthened through the establishment of Cath Labs in Rajouri, Baramulla, and Doda. Emergency hospitals are also planned in Uri and Poonch to improve healthcare access in border and remote regions.
A comprehensive J&K-wide Cancer Control Strategy will be implemented in collaboration with NITI Aayog and ICMR, focusing on prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment. Additionally, bullet-proof ambulances will be deployed in border districts to ensure safe and timely emergency response.
Balanced Growth Agenda
Overall, the J&K Budget 2026–27 presents a balanced development agenda, combining economic growth with social welfare. By focusing on farmers, students, youth, and healthcare, the budget aims to strengthen resilience, promote equity, and improve quality of life across Jammu and Kashmir.
