SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the newly constituted Legislative Assembly after a ten-year electoral gap, signalling a pivotal moment in the region’s governance. His address marked the beginning of a transformative era, following the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory in 2019 after the abrogation of Article 370. Reflecting on the high voter turnout, Sinha hailed the democratic spirit of the people, saying it underscored a powerful commitment to peace and stability through democratic governance.
In response to the region’s desire for greater autonomy, Sinha acknowledged the strong aspiration for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. He affirmed the government’s support for this goal, noting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated his commitment to full statehood on multiple occasions. The Lieutenant Governor underscored that statehood and constitutional guarantees would honour the people’s faith in democratic processes and self-governance, especially following the Council of Ministers’ unanimous resolution calling for its immediate restoration.
“Our people now look up to the Government with many hopes and expectations. My Government is fully geared up to realize these hopes and fulfil these expectations. The aspiration for a return to the Statehood remains strong!,” LG said. “The Council of Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir has recently passed a unanimous resolution calling for the immediate restoration of statehood. This resolution reflects the collective will of the elected representatives, echoing the aspirations of the people for the reinstatement of full democratic governance. My
Government will make all efforts for restoration of full Statehood and Constitutional Guarantees available to the State. It would be a befitting reciprocation of the faith reposed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir in our democratic institutions. In the meantime, I urge all stakeholders to work together as one team and extend full support to my government in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people.”
The LG focused heavily on Jammu and Kashmir’s economic potential, stating that the region is currently growing at a rate of about seven per cent annually. His government aims to accelerate this growth by prioritising development across various sectors. Infrastructure projects are a key part of this agenda, with special attention on expanding the road network, improving rail connectivity, and accelerating ongoing projects like the Jammu-Srinagar expressways. The soon-to-be-completed rail link to the Valley, he said, will revolutionise economic connectivity and benefit both commerce and tourism.
Job creation remains a top priority, with plans to develop 46 new industrial estates to promote local industries and employment. Sinha announced the expansion of the Jammu and Kashmir Industrial Policy, supported by a £28,400 crore Central Sector package aimed at attracting private investment and fostering a dynamic business environment. The administration also plans to boost entrepreneurship and self-employment through credit schemes and skill development initiatives, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Sinha expressed his government’s commitment to a socially inclusive Jammu and Kashmir. Emphasising youth empowerment, he outlined plans to develop programmes that promote vocational training, entrepreneurship, and sports. The government will invest in digital learning tools and establish vocational labs in all higher secondary schools, ensuring that young people are equipped with skills that align with the demands of a modern economy.
To address the rising concern of drug abuse among youth, Sinha announced a “War Against Drug Abuse” initiative. This comprehensive programme will include law enforcement measures as well as community-based mental health and rehabilitation services to help affected individuals reintegrate into society.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasised the need for a robust healthcare system, particularly in rural areas. He announced plans to establish critical care blocks at the district level and increase medical and nursing seats to address the shortage of healthcare professionals. Additionally, his government will work to improve primary healthcare by introducing preventive screening and expanding access to medicines and diagnostic facilities in rural areas.
In the field of education, Sinha underscored the transformative role of newly established institutions like IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu. The government plans to enhance infrastructure for colleges and universities, encourage innovation and start-up culture, and increase focus on research. Initiatives under the National Education Policy 2020 will promote digital learning and equip students with essential skills, preparing them for the global workforce.
With nearly half of Jammu and Kashmir’s workforce engaged in agriculture, Sinha reiterated the government’s commitment to this sector. The Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), which includes projects across agriculture, horticulture, and livestock, aims to modernise farming practices and improve productivity. The administration will expand access to crop insurance, enhance irrigation, and strengthen agricultural credit systems to support farmers against climate risks and unforeseen challenges.
Sinha also announced the establishment of Kisan Khidmat Ghars in local communities to offer a one-stop service hub for farmers, ensuring they receive support on agricultural practices and market access.
Infrastructure development, particularly in transport and energy, formed another key pillar of Sinha’s speech. He promised to expedite major connectivity projects, including new highways and ring roads around Srinagar and Jammu, as well as improve rural connectivity through schemes like PMGSY. The upcoming completion of night-landing facilities at the Jammu and Srinagar airports is also expected to boost the tourism sector.
In the energy sector, Jammu and Kashmir will push forward with hydropower projects to double its green energy capacity by 2026. The government also plans to solarise government buildings and provide 200 units of free electricity to low-income households. Sustainable practices, he stated, would ensure that economic growth aligns with environmental preservation, with particular focus on the conservation of water bodies such as Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake.
Sinha highlighted urbanisation as a driver of economic growth and outlined efforts to develop smart, sustainable cities. The government will strengthen urban local bodies, promote affordable housing, and improve service delivery in urban areas. For rural housing, Sinha committed to completing all sanctioned houses under PMAY-G and supporting additional deserving families, ensuring that each household has access to essential amenities.
Recognising the unique heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha promised to restore and promote local culture, traditional crafts, and historical sites. He announced plans to promote Srinagar’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art and committed to expanding support for artisans through market access and GI tagging for crafts.
Women’s empowerment featured prominently in the address, with the Lieutenant Governor pledging support for women’s health, education, and entrepreneurship. The government aims to boost women’s participation in sports and provide counselling services to support their well-being.
In closing, Sinha called on the Assembly members and citizens to work in unity towards a prosperous, inclusive Jammu and Kashmir. “Together,” he concluded, “we must create a society where economic growth is inclusive, social harmony prevails, and opportunities are abundant for all, regardless of background.” The address highlighted an ambitious and inclusive agenda that aims to bring stability, economic prosperity, and social equity to Jammu and Kashmir in the years ahead.
