Omar Abdullah Presents J&K Budget 2025-26: Full Speech Here
Srinagar 07 March 2025: On March 7, 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah presented the J&K Budget 2025-26 in the Legislative Assembly. This budget marks a significant milestone as it is the first budget of J&K after a gap of seven years. The budget includes a range of welfare measures aimed at improving the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, with a particular focus on women and economically vulnerable families.
Key Announcements
1. Free Rides for Women in Public Transport: In a move to promote gender equality and ease the financial burden on women, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced free ridership for all women in government-owned public transport, including e-buses, starting from April 1, 2025. This initiative is expected to enhance access to education and employment opportunities for women, promoting greater independence and mobility.
2. 200 Units of Free Electricity for AAY Families: Omar Abdullah announced 200 units of free electricity for all families under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY). This initiative aims to provide much-needed relief to the most economically vulnerable sections of society, ensuring a reliable electricity supply and reducing the financial burden on these families. This announcement aligns with the promise made in the National Conference (NC) manifesto.
Commitment to Self-Sufficiency in Power Generation
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in power generation within the next two years. He highlighted the collaboration between the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) and NHPC to implement various hydroelectric projects. These projects include the Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle projects, which are expected to significantly boost the region’s power generation capacity.
Additional Welfare Measures
1. Free Ration for AAY Beneficiaries: The Chief Minister announced that AAY beneficiaries would receive 10 kg of free ration per month starting April 1, 2025. This measure aims to ensure food security for the most vulnerable families in the region.
2. Increased Marriage Assistance for Girls: The marriage assistance for girls under the AAY category has been increased from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000. This initiative aims to provide financial support to families for the marriage of their daughters, reducing the economic burden on them.
3. Introduction of More E-Buses: To improve public transport and reduce environmental impact, the government plans to introduce 200 more e-buses in Srinagar and Jammu. This initiative is expected to enhance the public transport system and promote sustainable transportation.
Focus on Education
The budget also includes significant allocations for the education sector. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of improving the quality of education and ensuring access to education for all children in Jammu and Kashmir. Key initiatives include:
1. Infrastructure Development: The government plans to invest in the development of school infrastructure, including the construction of new classrooms, laboratories, and libraries. This initiative aims to create a conducive learning environment for students.
2. Teacher Training Programs: To improve the quality of education, the government will implement comprehensive teacher training programs. These programs aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of teachers, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide quality education to students.
3. Scholarships for Students: The budget includes provisions for scholarships for meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. These scholarships aim to provide financial support to students, enabling them to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
Boosting Tourism
Recognizing the importance of tourism to the region’s economy, the budget includes several initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Key measures include:
1. Development of Tourist Infrastructure: The government plans to invest in the development of tourist infrastructure, including the construction of new hotels, resorts, and tourist facilities. This initiative aims to attract more tourists to the region and provide them with a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
2. Promotion of Cultural Tourism: The budget includes provisions for the promotion of cultural tourism, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative aims to attract tourists interested in exploring the region’s history, culture, and traditions.
3. Adventure Tourism: To attract adventure enthusiasts, the government plans to develop adventure tourism activities, including trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting. This initiative aims to position Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for adventure tourism.
Healthcare Initiatives
The budget also includes significant allocations for the healthcare sector, with a focus on improving access to quality healthcare services for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir. Key initiatives include:
1. Upgradation of Healthcare Facilities: The government plans to upgrade healthcare facilities across the region, including the construction of new hospitals and the renovation of existing ones. This initiative aims to ensure that residents have access to quality healthcare services.
2. Recruitment of Healthcare Professionals: To address the shortage of healthcare professionals, the government will recruit additional doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. This initiative aims to improve the availability of healthcare services and reduce the burden on existing healthcare professionals.
3. Health Insurance for All: The budget includes provisions for a comprehensive health insurance scheme for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative aims to provide financial protection to families in case of medical emergencies and ensure access to quality healthcare services.
Infrastructure Development
The budget includes significant investments in infrastructure development, aimed at improving connectivity and promoting economic growth in the region. Key initiatives include:
1. Road and Highway Projects: The government plans to invest in the construction and maintenance of roads and highways across Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative aims to improve connectivity and facilitate the movement of goods and people.
2. Development of Smart Cities: The budget includes provisions for the development of smart cities in Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative aims to create modern, sustainable, and technologically advanced urban centers that provide a high quality of life for residents.
3. Water Supply and Sanitation: The government plans to invest in the development of water supply and sanitation infrastructure. This initiative aims to ensure access to clean drinking water and improve sanitation facilities for all residents.
Agriculture and Rural Development
The budget includes several initiatives aimed at promoting agriculture and rural development in Jammu and Kashmir. Key measures include:
1. Support for Farmers: The government plans to provide financial support to farmers, including subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural equipment. This initiative aims to improve agricultural productivity and enhance the livelihoods of farmers.
2. Development of Rural Infrastructure: The budget includes provisions for the development of rural infrastructure, including the construction of roads, bridges, and irrigation facilities. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life in rural areas and promote economic development.
3. Promotion of Horticulture: Recognizing the importance of horticulture to the region’s economy, the government plans to invest in the promotion of horticultural activities. This initiative aims to support the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and other horticultural products, enhancing the income of farmers.
Bottom-Line
The J&K Budget 2025-26 presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and promoting sustainable development in the region. The budget includes a range of welfare measures aimed at improving the lives of the most vulnerable sections of society, promoting gender equality, and ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The initiatives outlined in the budget aim to create a prosperous and inclusive future for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
