JAMMU, Feb 12: As part of his ongoing pre-budget consultations, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also oversees the Finance Department, has set aside an entire day for discussions with the representatives of Jammu district on February 16. This exclusive session, to be held at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu, will bring together the 11 MLAs from the district, along with the District Development Council (DDC) Chairperson and the Deputy Commissioner, to deliberate on key financial and developmental matters.
In a departure from his usual practice of consulting representatives from two to four districts per day, the CM has dedicated special attention to Jammu district, reflecting its significance in the state’s economic and political landscape. The meeting will provide a crucial platform for legislators to voice their constituency-specific concerns, propose budgetary allocations, and discuss ongoing developmental projects.
To ensure broader participation, MLAs, DDC Chairpersons, and other officials unable to attend in person will have the option to join the deliberations via video conferencing from their respective District Commissioner offices. Notably, Jammu district’s political composition is overwhelmingly represented by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with 10 out of 11 MLAs belonging to the party. The lone Independent MLA, Satish Sharma from Chhamb, holds a Cabinet position in the Omar Abdullah-led government.
Ahead of the Jammu district meeting, the Chief Minister will engage with representatives from Shopian and Kupwara districts on February 13, followed by Poonch and Rajouri districts on February 14, and Doda and Kishtwar districts on February 15. These consultations are expected to shape budgetary priorities and streamline financial planning for the upcoming fiscal year.