SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday reiterated its commitment to the resettlement and welfare of Kashmiri migrant families, announcing accelerated housing, social security and service delivery measures during the Budget 2026–27 presentation in the Legislative Assembly.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the government is expediting the construction of accommodation for migrant government employees, with a target of 6,000 flats. As of date, 4,096 flats have been completed, of which 3,250 have already been allotted. During the current financial year, 944 flats were completed, while 1,200 additional flats are proposed to be completed in 2026–27.
The Chief Minister said the PoJK Bhawan in Jammu is also targeted for completion during 2026–27. Once completed, he said, the facility will emerge as a powerful tribute to the resilience of displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and West Pakistan. In addition, a multi-purpose community hall at Jagti Muthi in Jammu will soon be commissioned to further advance the welfare of migrant communities.
Abdullah said the government remains committed to ensuring dignified living conditions and seamless access to essential services for migrant families. Civic and utility services are being strengthened in migrant colonies in Jammu as well as in all transit camps.
The Chief Minister said efforts are underway to extend Ayushman Bharat health insurance coverage to migrant families, while digital services are being strengthened to simplify access to documentation. A dedicated online platform has already been established for the issuance of certificates and for registration and grievance redressal related to migrant property.
Through these digital initiatives, he said, over 1.64 lakh certificates have been issued to Kashmiri migrants, including 36,541 migrant certificates, 2,325 RBA certificates, 1,597 EWS certificates and 2,789 income certificates. Additionally, 14,619 registration certificates have been issued to Kashmiri migrants and displaced persons from PoJK, aimed at empowering the community.
The Chief Minister also announced the initiation of the Smart Public Distribution System in 2026–27 to strengthen service delivery, curb leakages and enhance transparency in the distribution of essential commodities.
As an important social protection measure, the government has started providing 10 kg of free ration per person to all Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiaries with effect from April 1, 2025, ensuring enhanced nutritional support for the most vulnerable households. Additional food grains are already being supplied free of cost to eligible beneficiaries, as promised.
Abdullah said fair price shops are being upgraded to improve accessibility and distribution efficiency, reinforcing the government’s commitment to an inclusive, efficient and citizen-centric food security framework. The Food and Civil Supplies sector has been allocated Rs 331 crore in the Budget, an increase of Rs 57 crore over the previous year.
