Complete Address  of  Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu, Monday, 03 March, 2025 :  Hon’ble Speaker  & Hon’ble Members  

1. 1. It is with immense pride and a deep sense of duty  that I address this esteemed House today, as we gather for the first budget session of the newly elected Legislative Assembly. This moment  stands as a testament to the strength of our  democratic values and the unwavering  aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for peace, progress, and prosperity.  
   2. I once again extend my heartiest congratulations  to you all – the elected representatives, who have  earned the trust and mandate of the people. You  bear the responsibility of fulfilling the aspirations  of millions who look to you with hope for stability,  and growth. 

1. 3. For the first time this winter, my Government –  through close coordination between the  administration and elected representatives – took  comprehensive measures to minimize  disruptions to the daily lives of the people during  snowfall. This synergy enabled one of the  swiftest restorations of essential supplies in  Kashmir, including efficient snow clearance.  Additionally, the power supply remained one of  the most reliable, with minimal interruptions. I  extend my sincere appreciation to my  Government for their dedication and unwavering  commitment to meeting the expectations of the  people and ensuring seamless winter  preparedness.  
   4. This session is not just a legislative formality but  a reflection of your commitment to good  governance, transparency, and inclusive  development. 

1. 5. This budget carries historic significance as it is the  first in over seven years to be presented by an  elected government in Jammu and Kashmir. It  symbolizes the people’s power, as it is prepared  by the representatives chosen by the people  themselves. This budget is not merely a financial  document; it is a testament to the aspirations of  the masses, reflecting their hopes for a brighter  future!  
   6. For the first time, the Hon’ble Chief Minister has  personally chaired meetings for all twenty  districts, separately, engaging directly with  elected representatives to understand their  aspirations, regional needs, and development  priorities in Budget formulation. The voices of the  people are again shaping the allocation of  resources and the prioritization of development  goals. This budget is a true celebration of  democracy-an expression of the dreams and  expectations of every household, every  community, and every region of Jammu and  Kashmir. It marks a moment of renewal and  empowerment, where the collective efforts of the  people’s representatives are shaping the future  of this land. This budget represents a new era of  participatory governance, ensuring that the  needs and aspirations of the common man  remain at the heart of policy making.

1. 7. 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. 

1. 8. We take immense pride in our composite culture  and centuries-old traditions of amity and  brotherhood. My Government is committed to  preserving the unity in diversity, that defines  Jammu and Kashmir. It is firmly committed to  maintaining peace and harmony, ensuring that  the aspirations of our people are protected from  divisive influences and cultivating an inclusive  society built on mutual respect and harmony,  paving the path to a prosperous and peaceful  future.  
   9. As I have mentioned earlier, my Government  remains fully committed to implementing its  promises made to the people, as a  representation of the people’s aspirations for  further political empowerment, and for creating  an enabling environment for employment,  sustainable development, social inclusiveness  and expansion of the economy for enhancing the  overall quality of life. It will work relentlessly on  the three principles of Economy, Ecology and  Equity that will shape our future. We commit  ourselves to this balance for a better and brighter  future for all.

1. 10. Good governance remains the cornerstone of a  prosperous and harmonious future for Jammu  and Kashmir. My Government remains firmly  committed to transparent and accountable  decision making, ensuring the efficient and  effective allocation of resources so that the  people of Jammu and Kashmir fully benefit from  every penny spent. Innovative initiatives such as  digital governance, streamlined public service  delivery, effective grievance redressal, and the  promotion of socio-economic programs are  designed to bridge developmental gaps and  strengthen public trust.  
   11. The economy of Jammu and Kashmir has  experienced notable growth in recent years,  reflected in key indicators such as a rising  GSDP, infrastructure advancements, and  improved socio economic indices. However, this  progress has not been without challenges.  Issues such as regional disparities,  unemployment, and sustainable development  need to be addressed. Nonetheless, these  challenges drive the commitment of My  Government to refining and strengthening the  developmental framework, to make it more  robust and balanced, more participatory, to  ensure inclusive and equitable growth for all.

1. 12. My Government will continue to work on various  reforms to strengthen the fiscal position of  Jammu and Kashmir.  
   13. My Government’s interventions will prioritize  youth, women, and farmers, striving to make  Jammu and Kashmir a progressive and inclusive  economy. With unity and a shared commitment,  it will work towards the welfare of every section  of society, especially the poor and marginalized. 

1. 14. Infrastructure development remains a key driver  of progress, with significant advancements in  connectivity. The recent inauguration of the  Sonamarg Tunnel (Z-Morh) by the Hon’ble Prime  Minister, along with the completion of two  segments of the Jammu-Srinagar National  Highway (Banihal Bypass and Ramban Bypass),  has substantially reduced travel time. My  Government is committed to fast-tracking major  connectivity projects by streamlining land  acquisition, securing forest clearances, and  addressing encroachment issues. Ongoing  projects, including the Expressway, National  Highways, and Ring Roads for Jammu and  Srinagar, will be accelerated to ensure their  timely completion.  
   15. To enhance connectivity in remote areas of  Jammu and Kashmir, eligible rural habitations  are being linked under the ambitious Pradhan  Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). This initiative aims to bridge the rural-urban divide by  ensuring all-weather road access, facilitating  better access to healthcare, education, and  markets. Significant progress has been made in  strengthening road networks across hilly and far flung regions, improving the quality of life and  fostering economic growth.

1. 16. 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.  
   17. To enhance air connectivity, evening flights have  been made operational, providing greater  flexibility for travellers. Additionally, the  expansion of Jammu Airport is underway to  accommodate increased passenger traffic,  improve infrastructure, and enhance overall  travel experience. This initiative aims to boost  tourism, trade, and economic activities in the  region.

1. 18. Jammu and Kashmir is endowed with  abundance of water resources that are yet to be  harnessed fully. My Government is committed to  harnessing their full potential so that their  economic dividend enhances people’s lives and  J&K’s financial position. My government will seek  the support of the Government of India for a  significant leap forward in our energy sector.  
   19. The energy sector in Jammu and Kashmir is  undergoing a transformative phase, with my  Government committed to ensuring the early  completion of key hydropower projects, including  Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle. These projects  will collectively add 3,014 MW of capacity,  significantly strengthening the region’s energy  security and benefiting the people of Jammu and  Kashmir. Additionally, several other projects, such as Dulhasti-II and Kirthai-I, are in the  pipeline, further reinforcing Jammu and  Kashmir’s position as a hub for renewable  energy.

1. 20. Significant strides have been made in  strengthening the power infrastructure.  Transmission capacity has enhanced by 50%  with the successful completion of 28 projects,  while distribution capacity has increased by 40%  with the execution of 194 projects. Additionally,  several Receiving Stations and Grid Stations are  being speeded up by my Government for  completion shortly, further fortifying the  transmission and distribution network minimising  power losses and enhancing efficiency.  
   21. My Government is committed to solarizing all  government buildings in a phased manner,  promoting sustainable energy adoption.  Additionally, under the PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli  Yojana, more than 80,000 households in Jammu and Kashmir are being solarized, ensuring  affordable and clean energy access for residents  while advancing the region’s renewable energy  goals.

1. 22. My Government is committed to achieving 100%  Smart Metering to ensure the reduction of AT&C  losses and increase the Revenue generation.  
   23. My Government is implementing the Jal Jeevan  Mission in a mission mode to ensure the  provision of clean and safe drinking water to  every household in Jammu and Kashmir. So far,  a majority of households have been covered,  and efforts are underway to complete the  remaining connections within the mission period  through the completion of ongoing Water Supply  Schemes. My Government is taking all steps to  ensure quality, enhance last-mile connectivity,  strengthen distribution networks, and ensure  sustainable water sources to prevent supply  disruptions. 

1. 24. Shahpur Kandi Dam Project underscores my  Government’s commitment to strengthening  irrigation infrastructure. Work on the New Pratap  Canal has also commenced, aimed at boosting  agricultural productivity. Ensuring timely  execution of these and other irrigation projects  across Jammu and Kashmir ,while overcoming  logistical and environmental challenges remains  a key priority for my Government.  
   25. Tourism, a cornerstone of Jammu and Kashmir’s  economy, has witnessed unprecedented growth,  with a record-breaking number of tourist visits in  2024-underscoring the region’s global appeal.  To further enhance the visitor experience, my  Government is implementing innovative projects  to diversify tourism offerings and strengthen  infrastructure. At the same time, my Government  remains committed to promoting sustainable  tourism by ensuring the balanced distribution of  tourist traffic and preserving the ecological integrity of popular destinations, ensuring long term growth that benefits both visitors and local  communities.

1. 26. The annual Amarnath Ji Yatra holds immense  spiritual significance, attracting lakhs of  devotees from across the country and beyond.  This sacred pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath  cave shrine in the Himalayas is a symbol of  unwavering faith and devotion, and its smooth  conduct is a priority for my Government.  
   27. Building on the success of last year’s Yatra, my  Government remains committed to  strengthening future arrangements by ensuring  seamless logistics, enhanced infrastructure, and  eco friendly initiatives. A balanced approach will  be maintained to preserve the fragile Himalayan  ecosystem while providing a safe and enriching  spiritual experience for devotees. The Yatra is  not just a religious event but a testament to  efficient governance, and we will continue to uphold its legacy with the highest standards of  safety, convenience, and sustainability.

1. 28. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant  progress in industrial development and  investment. The new Central Sector Scheme,  with an outlay of ₹28,400 crore, offers incentives  such as Capital Investment and Interest  Subvention, driving significant industrial growth.  Under this scheme, 971 units have already been  registered, while 1,150 units are in the process  of availing benefits. To further bolster the  industrial sector, 889 units are currently under  development, with 324 expected to commence  production soon. To further accelerate industrial  expansion, my Government is expediting the  provision of infrastructure in Industrial Estates,  ensuring a conducive environment for business  growth and economic progress.  
   29. The Handicraft sector remains a vital pillar of  Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, directly employing 4.22 lakh people. To further promote  ‘Brand J&K’, my Government is actively  facilitating GI tagging for traditional products,  ensuring greater recognition and market access.  Under the Vishwakarma Scheme, 1.19 lakh  artisans have been provided skill training, with  J&K ranking 3rd nationwide in training  performance. These initiatives are strengthening  the region’s position as a hub for industry,  innovation, and cultural heritage, fostering  economic growth while preserving its rich  artisanal legacy.

1. 30. Jammu and Kashmir’s rich artisanal heritage has  received a major boost with 10 traditional crafts  having been granted Geographical Indication  (GI) tags, while 19 more are in the pipeline. This  recognition not only preserves and promotes  indigenous craftsmanship but also enhances  market value and global reach. The region has  also witnessed a significant rise in exports of  handloom and handicraft products,  strengthening the livelihoods of local artisans  and positioning J&K as a key player in the global  handicrafts market.

1. 31. To further strengthen the handicraft and textile  sector, my Government is commissioning two  Raw Material Banks for Pashmina and Wool.  These facilities will ensure a steady supply of  high-quality raw materials to artisans and  manufacturers, enhancing production capacity,  preserving traditional craftsmanship, and  boosting the local economy.  
   32. My Government is taking all steps to revitalize  the agriculture sector, a vital lifeline for Jammu  and Kashmir, through transformative initiatives  and various centrally sponsored schemes.  These efforts aim to address key challenges,  promote sustainable farming practices, and  enhance productivity across horticulture,  livestock, fisheries, and more. The success of  schemes like the PM Fasal Bima Yojana and the  growing adoption of high-density plantations  reflect the sector’s steady progress, ensuring  greater resilience and prosperity for our farmers.

1. 33. My Government is taking significant steps in  transforming the agriculture and allied sectors in  Jammu and Kashmir through a series of targeted  initiatives – HADP, High-Density Plantation; Cold  Storage & Market Connectivity; Winter  Cultivation & Crop Diversification; and GI Tag  Recognition. Through these initiatives, my  Government is committed to strengthening the  agricultural ecosystem, enhancing farmers’  income, and ensuring long-term sustainability in  the sector.  
   34. My Government is dedicated to strengthening  healthcare infrastructure across Jammu and  Kashmir, ensuring quality, accessible, and  affordable medical services for all. Prestigious  institutions such as AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Kashmir, along with newly established paediatric  and cancer hospitals, are transforming tertiary  healthcare delivery in the region. Additionally,  the expansion of critical care facilities, dialysis  centers, and telemedicine services is  significantly improving access to affordable and  specialized medical care, ensuring that every  citizen benefits from enhanced healthcare  facilities.

1. 35. Under the Universal Health Coverage scheme  Ayushman Bharat “Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya  Yojana” – SEHAT, 15.35 lakh free treatments  have been provided, offering critical medical  support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.  This initiative has resulted in savings of  approximately ₹2,765 crore in out-of pocket  expenses for patients, ensuring financial  protection and improved access to quality  healthcare for all. 

1. 36. Additionally, to ensure swift and accessible  medical assistance, 489 ambulances have been  integrated into the 102-108 ambulance network,  providing immediate transportation and  emergency care. This initiative has already  benefited 4.50 lakh patients, reinforcing my  Government’s commitment to strengthening  emergency healthcare services across Jammu &  Kashmir.  
   37. 3 Districts have been declared TB Mukt and  Tele- Radiology services are being provided at  71 health centres by my Government. Dialysis  services have been made functional in all district  hospitals.  
   38. AIIMS Kashmir is nearing completion and is  expected to be operational soon, significantly  enhancing healthcare infrastructure in the  region. To further strengthen medical education,  my Government is taking steps to increase  MBBS and PG seats in the 2025-26 academic session, expanding opportunities for aspiring  doctors.

1. 39. My Government is intensifying efforts in the fight  against substance abuse by expanding  functional drug de-addiction centers, reaffirming  its commitment to addressing this critical issue.  This initiative adopts a comprehensive approach  focused on rehabilitation, awareness, and  prevention, with the ultimate goal of creating a  drug-free and healthier society in Jammu and  Kashmir.  
   40. My Government is transforming the education  sector through innovative interventions,  including the establishment of smart classrooms,  tinkering labs, and digital resources. A strong  emphasis on skill development, particularly for  women and youth, is fostering inclusivity and  empowerment. Additionally, to enhance teaching  standards and improve educational outcomes,  my Government is prioritizing capacity building programs for educators, ensuring a more  dynamic and effective learning environment.

1. 41. Vidhya Samiksha Kendra is being  operationalized for data driven decision making  and improved educational outcomes. Real time  recording of student’s attendance and tracking of  teacher attendance have been also introduced.  
   42. My Government is committed to strengthening  the infrastructure of colleges and universities,  ensuring adequate faculty and staff to enhance  the quality of higher education. As part of the  National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, special  emphasis will be placed on advancing research  facilities for both faculty and students.  Additionally, innovation, incubation, and  entrepreneurship will be actively encouraged to  foster a start-up culture among students,  equipping them with the skills and opportunities  to drive economic growth and self-reliance. 

1. 43. My government is focusing on transforming  Jammu and Kashmir into an educational hub  with strategic investments in higher education.  IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu are now operational.  Jammu University has attained A++ status, while  the Islamic University of Science and  Technology (IUST) leads in skill development  and innovation. Faculty from the University of  Kashmir are recognized among the top 2% of  global scientists by Stanford University.  Institutions like Cluster University of Jammu and  IUST are contributing to high impact research  and securing patents.  
   44. Urban infrastructure has been significantly  upgraded through initiatives like the Integrated  Command and Control Centre (ICCC) and green  transport solutions. To promote sustainable  urban growth, waste management centers and  pollution abatement projects are being  implemented by my Government. 260 Smart City projects are complete, with 29 more underway.  Additionally, under the AMRUT program, 82  projects have been completed under AMRUT-I,  and 153 projects approved under AMRUT-II.

1. 45. Green transport initiatives have been further  strengthened with the addition of 200 e-buses  and e-rickshaws, reducing carbon emissions and  promoting eco-friendly urban mobility. My  Government remains committed to modernizing  urban infrastructure, ensuring sustainability,  efficiency, and enhanced quality of life for the  people of Jammu and Kashmir.  
   46. Significant progress has been made under  PMAY-Urban, with 66% of houses completed  and the remaining 34 % under execution,  ensuring improved housing for urban residents.  Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, 100% of  wards are now covered by door-to-door waste  collection, with 30% of waste being processed.  Additionally, 33 Waste Management Centers, including Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs)  and Compost Pits, have been completed and  made functional. The Devika River Pollution  Abatement Project is also nearing completion,  reinforcing my Government’s commitment to  urban sustainability, cleanliness, and  environmental conservation.

1. 47. Jammu and Kashmir’s social welfare programs  reflect my Government’s unwavering  commitment to inclusivity and equity. 80%  PMAY-G houses have been completed &  remaining are under progress. 90,571 Self Help  Groups have been promoted benefitting around  8 lakh families under JKRLM. 1.25 lakh works  are being completed annually under MG NREGA.

1. 48. My Government is actively constructing Mass  Housing Colonies and flatted accommodations  to provide secure and affordable housing for  Economically Weaker Section (EWS) beneficiaries. This initiative aims to enhance  urban livability and ensure dignified housing for  all.

1. 49. My Government has ensured an adequate  resource envelope for Panchayati Raj  Institutions (PRIs), enabling them to undertake  sustainable and inclusive development in their  respective areas. This commitment empowers  local governance, strengthens grassroots  democracy, and accelerates holistic regional  growth.  
   50. Women empowerment remains a top priority for  my Government, with a strong focus on  education, healthcare, nutrition, skill  development, and employability. Various  projects and schemes will be further  strengthened to ensure that women have the  necessary resources and opportunities to  achieve economic independence and contribute  meaningfully to society. These efforts reflect our commitment to fostering inclusive growth and  gender equality across Jammu and Kashmir.

1. 51. Under the Government’s initiative, 29,000  Lakhpati Didis have been empowered, creating  sustainable livelihoods and fostering economic  independence among rural women. This  initiative has transformed women into successful  entrepreneurs, driving financial inclusion and  rural prosperity. Building on this success, my  Government is actively creating more Potential  Lakhpati Didis, further expanding opportunities  for women and strengthening the rural economy.  
   52. Under our government’s commitment to social  welfare, over 9 lakh citizens benefit from social  safety nets, including pensions for the elderly,  widows, and specially-abled individuals. These  initiatives provide financial security and dignity to  vulnerable sections of society.  
   53. My 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.

1. 54. Additionally, our supplementary nutrition  programs support the health and well-being of  pregnant women, lactating mothers, and  children, ensuring better maternal and child  nutrition for a healthier future.  
   55. Under the National Food Security Act (NFSA),  25 lakh families (approximately 99 lakh  Individuals) receive ration support. Additionally,  under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna  Yojana (PMGKAY), free ration is being provided to 16.62 lakh households by my Government,  benefitting 66.51 lakh individuals.

1. 56. Women empowerment remains a key priority for  my Government, with initiatives like the Ladli Beti  scheme, which has benefited 1.30 lakh girls, and  the Marriage Assistance Program, supporting  over 97,000 families. Additionally, One-Stop  Centres (OSCs) and Hubs for Empowerment of  Women have been established as vital  resources, offering essential support,  information, and assistance across Jammu &  Kashmir, ensuring safety, financial security, and  social upliftment for women.  
   57. Persons residing in areas adjoining 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 SC category. 

1. 58. Reservation of seats in the Legislative Assembly  of Jammu and Kashmir has been granted by the  Government to the persons belonging to  Scheduled Tribes. Reservation of seats for Other  Backward Classes in Panchayats, Municipalities  and Municipal Corporations have been also  granted.  
   59. The tribal communities of Jammu and Kashmir  are witnessing unprecedented development.  The establishment of the prestigious J&K Tribal  Research Institute, construction of new hostels,  and provision of transit accommodations for  nomadic populations are ensuring improved  socio-economic conditions. Smart classrooms  and educational facilities, coupled with transport  support for seasonal migrations, exemplify my  Government’s dedication to uplifting these  communities. Further, Forest Rights Act 2006  has also been made operational. 

1. 60. Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a new era of  progress, led by a leadership that understands  and connects with the aspirations of its youth. My  Government is committed to empowering young  minds through education, skill development,  innovation, and entrepreneurship, ensuring they  have the tools to shape a brighter future. With  policies focused on youth engagement,  employment opportunities, and digital  transformation, we are building a dynamic  ecosystem where the talent and energy of our  young generation drive the progress of the  region. This is a Government that listens,  responds, and works alongside the youth to  transform Jammu & Kashmir into a hub of  opportunity, growth, and innovation.  
   61. Through initiatives like Mission Youth, Mumkin,  Tejaswini, and PARVAZ, thousands of young  individuals are being equipped with the skills and  financial support needed to build successful careers. The Self-Employment and Startup  Support Programs have enabled thousands of  aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into  thriving businesses, fostering innovation and  economic growth. Additionally, sports  infrastructure has been significantly upgraded,  with modern stadiums and training centres  encouraging young talent to excel at national  and international levels.

1. 62. My government is committed to making Jammu  and Kashmir a centre of sporting excellence,  with remarkable advancements in sports  infrastructure, training, and events. The  successful hosting of the four yearly events of  the Khelo India Winter Games and the revival of  international cricket through the Legends  League underscore Jammu and Kashmir’s  emergence as a sporting hub. World-class  facilities, including the Khel Gaon in Nagrota and  district-level high performance centres, aim to nurture young talent and elevate the region’s  sporting achievements. More sports facilities,  playfields & synthetic turfs are under progress.

1. 63. Preserving and promoting the rich cultural  heritage of Jammu and Kashmir remains a key  priority for my Government. Significant efforts  are underway to restore iconic heritage sites  such as the Mubarak Mandi Palace while  revitalizing institutions like the SPS Museum and  Dogra Art Museum. To support the artistic and  literary community, welfare funds for writers and  artists have been established, alongside  infrastructure initiatives such as archival  repositories and cultural centers, reinforcing the  government’s commitment to heritage  conservation.  
   64. Additionally, the modernization of the SRS  Library in Jammu and the construction of the  Library-cum-Cafe at the Mubarak Mandi  Heritage Complex are nearing completion. These projects are designed to foster greater  public engagement with history, literature, and  the arts, creating vibrant spaces for learning and  cultural exchange. By integrating modern  amenities with heritage conservation, these  initiatives will play a crucial role in preserving and  promoting the rich cultural legacy of the region  for future generations

1. 65. Notable progress has been achieved in the  realm of digital governance, with Jammu and  Kashmir leading pioneering initiatives such as  the e-Unnat portal, which integrates more than  1,100 on line services. Additionally, over 500  services have been linked to the Rapid  Assessment System (RAS) to enhance  accountability and user feedback mechanisms.  These reforms, aligned with ease-of-doing  business parameters, aim to achieve 100%  compliance with recommendations from the  Department for Promotion of Industry and  Internal Trade (DPIIT). Looking ahead, my  Government is now focussed on strengthening  infrastructure, expanding high-speed internet  access, and enhancing user experience by  integrating AI-driven analytics for better  governance insights. Capacity-building  programs for government officials and  awareness campaigns for citizens will further  optimize the utilization of digital services.

1. 66. My Government is further strengthening the  grievance redressal mechanism through JK  Samadhan and Rabta, ensuring greater  accountability, transparency, and fairness in  service delivery. These initiatives enhance  citizen engagement by providing efficient and  responsive platforms for addressing public  concerns effectively.  
   67. The digitization of revenue records in Jammu  and Kashmir has been undertaken by the  Government as a key reform to enhance transparency, reduce land-related disputes, and  improve public access to land records. Scanning  legacy data, digitizing Jamabandi records, and  implementing GIS-based systems are  streamlining administrative processes and  strengthening public trust.

1. 68. My Government has taken proactive measures  to accelerate the recruitment process, ensuring  a transparent, merit-based, and efficient  selection system. These efforts aim to streamline  appointments across various sectors, providing  greater employment opportunities and  strengthening the workforce in Jammu and  Kashmir.  
   69. My Government is committed to strengthening  Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRls) and Urban  Local Bodies (ULBs) by ensuring timely elections  at all levels. This will enhance grassroots  democracy, promote citizen participation in decision-making, and empower local  governance for more effective development.

1. 70. Finally, I must emphasize that a free,  independent, and responsible press is the  cornerstone of a vibrant democracy. My  Government remains firmly committed to  upholding press freedom, ensuring that  journalists can operate in an environment that is  secure, transparent, and conducive to free  expression. We recognize the vital role of the  media in shaping public discourse, holding  institutions accountable, and keeping citizens  informed. Efforts will continue to strengthen  press Infrastructure, enhance access to  information, and protect the rights of journalists,  reaffirming our unwavering dedication to  democratic values and an open society. While  freedom of expression is fundamental, it must  always be exercised with responsibility, keeping  the national interest paramount. 

1. 71. As we deliberate on this budget, let us recognize  that it carries both the weight of history and the  promise of a brighter future. This occasion is truly  historic, as for the first time in seven years,  elected representatives are participating in this  Assembly, ensuring that the voices and  aspirations of the people are reflected in the  budget formulation. The path ahead presents  challenges, but it is also filled with immense  opportunities. Together, beyond political  affiliations, we must work for the welfare of the  people and the holistic development of Jammu  and Kashmir. I am confident that with our collective resolve, we will achieve new milestones and transform Jammu & Kashmir into a beacon of peace, progress, and prosperity.