Jammu, Feb 6 (JKNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday presented the Budget for the financial year 2026-27 in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, outlining a roadmap centred on economic growth, social welfare and institutional stability.
While presenting the Budget, as per news agency JKNS, Chief Minister said the government is committed to transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a modern, progressive and economically vibrant region through inclusive development and people-centric policies.
“Our focus is on building a business-friendly ecosystem that promotes innovation, attracts investment and generates sustainable employment, while ensuring that growth reaches every section of society,” Omar Abdullah told the House.
He said the J&K government is actively engaging with the Central Government to address fiscal challenges and ensure uninterrupted development. “Continuous dialogue with the Centre is underway to resolve financial constraints and strengthen the Union Territory’s economic foundation,” he said.
Highlighting key sectoral initiatives, the Chief Minister said the Budget places strong emphasis on agriculture, education and healthcare. “We are expanding crop insurance for horticulture crops like apple, saffron, mango and litchi, promoting modern irrigation practices, medicinal plant cultivation, and strengthening livestock development through embryo transfer technology labs in every district,” he said, adding that rural sanitation will be strengthened with a push towards ODF-Plus infrastructure.
On education and youth empowerment, Omar Abdullah announced digital learning reforms, including JK e-Pathshala DTH channels for Classes 1 to 12, upgraded Anganwadi centres into Bal Vidyalayas, indoor sports facilities in government schools, and priority employment for local youth in industries availing government incentives.
The Chief Minister said healthcare infrastructure is also being significantly upgraded. “Expansion of Lal Ded Hospital with IVF and NICU facilities, a new Mother and Child Hospital at GMC Anantnag, cath labs in Rajouri, Baramulla and Doda, emergency hospitals in Uri and Poonch, along with a J&K-wide cancer control strategy in collaboration with NITI Aayog and ICMR, form the core of our healthcare vision,” he said, adding that bullet-proof ambulances will be deployed in border districts.
Addressing the education workforce gap, Omar Abdullah informed the Assembly that 594 lecturer posts have been referred to recruitment agencies to address teacher shortages and strengthen the academic framework.
On the issue of long-serving temporary workers, he said a high-level committee constituted last year has examined the matter. “My government is committed to a just and humane solution, and based on the committee’s recommendations, a phased roadmap for regularisation will be announced,” he assured.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the contribution of ASHA and Anganwadi workers, describing them as the backbone of public health and early childhood care, and assured timely release of their honorariums. He further announced an increase in honorarium for vocational instructors.
The Budget, he said, reflects the government’s resolve to balance development, fiscal responsibility and social justice while laying the foundation for long-term stability and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)
