JAMMU, FEBRUARY 7 (KNS): Continuing with the pre-budget consultations for the third consecutive day, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah engaged in extensive discussions with public representatives and key stakeholders to gain firsthand insights into the issues and developmental priorities of various sectors and districts.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Education Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Administrative Secretaries of Finance, Social Welfare, Tourism, Industry & Commerce, Youth Services & Sports, Deputy Commissioners of Pulwama and Reasi districts, and heads of various departments, both in person and virtually.
Public representatives, including District Development Council (DDC) Chairpersons and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Pulwama and Reasi districts, raised concerns regarding electricity supply, drinking water schemes, flood management, staffing of schools and hospitals, upgradation of primary health centers, construction of bridges, and the development of new tourist destinations, parks, and parking facilities.
Addressing the participants, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized that these consultations were essential for shaping a budget that truly reflects the aspirations of the people. He acknowledged the pivotal role of public representatives in understanding grassroots-level challenges and assured them that their concerns would be duly considered.
The Chief Minister stated that this budget held special significance as it was the first time in many years that Jammu & Kashmir was preparing its own budget in consultation with public representatives. He stressed that these consultations were an effort to ensure inclusivity in the budgeting process.
“In the past, it was not possible for the Finance Minister of the country to meet with you all and discuss Jammu & Kashmir’s specific needs. But after the elections and the formation of our government, we now have the authority to draft our own budget, making these interactions even more crucial,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that over 33 interventions had been made during the session, reflecting the wide range of developmental issues requiring attention. He assured the participants that while it was not possible to address each demand immediately, “nothing that has been said here will be ignored” and that all concerns would be carefully examined during budget formulation.
Touching upon economic growth and industrial development, he stressed the need to support manufacturing, trade, and tourism. He noted the expansion of the railway network, highlighting how connectivity had gradually improved from Pathankot to Jammu, then to Udhampur and Katra, with plans for the train to reach Srinagar this year. However, he said that apprehensions over Jammu’s economy must be addressed from the adverse effects of shifting trade patterns, ensuring that the region continues to thrive as a commercial hub.
On tourism, the Chief Minister emphasized that Jammu had immense potential, particularly in religious and pilgrimage tourism. He said, “If marketed and promoted effectively, Jammu province can become India’s top destination for religious tourism.” He noted that while most visitors come for Mata Vaishno Devi’s pilgrimage, efforts must be made to showcase Jammu’s other sacred sites, encouraging pilgrims to extend their stay and explore the region’s cultural heritage.
He also stressed the importance of sports tourism, stating that discussions were underway for organizing a major sports event in Jammu, similar to the successful Srinagar Marathon. Plans were also in place for the expansion of Jammu Airport, addressing infrastructural challenges to improve connectivity.
The Chief Minister also expressed his support for private education, stating that Jammu & Kashmir should explore legislative frameworks to encourage the establishment of private universities, providing more opportunities for quality higher education.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Concluding his address, he thanked all participants for their valuable inputs, assuring them that their concerns and suggestions would be incorporated into the government’s policies and development agenda. “We will try to ensure that your ideas are reflected in our policies and programs. Your time and efforts in this consultation process are truly appreciated,” he said.
In a separate pre-budget consultation session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met with representatives from various sectors, including industry & trade, tourism, hotel & hospitality, education, social welfare, tribal affairs, youth affairs, and agriculture.
During the session, stakeholders from various sectors, including industry & trade, tourism, hotel & hospitality, education, social welfare, tribal affairs, youth affairs, and agriculture, put forth several key demands. They emphasized the need for developing Jammu as a religious and pilgrimage tourism hub, expanding private education opportunities, enhancing sports infrastructure, and strengthening support for tribal communities. Additionally, discussions were held on boosting tourism, improving trade policies, and fostering industrial growth to drive economic development in the region.
During his interaction, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the upcoming J&K Budget reflects the aspirations of the people, incorporating their demands into the government’s development agenda.
No: PR/DI/24/2238/
Government of Jammu and Kashmir
Department of Information
Friday, February 07, 2025
Email: dirinf17jk@gmail.com
Satish Sharma addresses mammoth gathering at Khour; participates in Guru Ravi Das Jayanti
Reaffirms govt's commitment in resolving people's grievances
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 07: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology and Information Technology, Satish Sharma, today conducted an extensive tour of Khour and addressed a mammoth gathering there.
The event witnessed a significant turnout of people from various walks of life, highlighting issues ranging from infrastructure development to basic amenities.
Satish Sharma attentively heard the concerns of the attendees and assured them that the issues and concerns raised by them would be taken up with the concerned authorities and addressed promptly.
While addressing the people, the Minister said that he will work with utmost zeal and vigour to bring enhanced development and prosperity in the region. He sought public cooperation in realising the set development targets.
While emphasising the unwavering commitment of the government towards addressing the pressing issues faced by the common people, the Minister said under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, we are dedicated to deliver effective governance and ensuring that public grievances are addressed on priority.
The Minister asked the officers of the line departments to put in their sincere efforts in rendering prompt services to the people. He instructed them to work in synergy so that people don’t face any kind of inconvenience.
Earlier, Satish Sharma participated in Shobha yatra at Akhnoor organised in connection with 684th Prakash Utsav of Shri Guru Ravi Das's Jayanti.
The Minister, on the occasion, prayed for peace and prosperity for mankind and Jammu and Kashmir in particular.(KNS)