SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reaffirmed on Monday that the government remains dedicated to reinstating full statehood, recognizing it as a crucial aspiration of the people.
Speaking at the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly in Jammu, he emphasized that the demand for statehood remains a core issue for the region’s residents.
“Restoring complete statehood is among the foremost priorities of my administration. We are actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this transition in a way that ensures peace, stability, and long-term progress,” LG Sinha said.
Economic Growth & Infrastructure Boost
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted J&K’s economic growth, citing improvements in GDP, infrastructure development, and socio-economic indices. However, he acknowledged existing challenges such as regional imbalances, unemployment, and sustainable growth.
“These challenges fuel our determination to strengthen J&K’s development model, making it more resilient, participatory, and inclusive,” he noted.
On infrastructure, he lauded the recent launch of the Sonamarg Tunnel (Z-Morh) by the Prime Minister and the completion of two critical sections of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway—the Banihal and Ramban bypasses—reducing travel time. He also assured that major connectivity projects, including expressways, national highways, and ring roads in Jammu and Srinagar, are being fast-tracked.
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) has also reached a significant milestone, with its final segment completed, marking a historic step in integrating J&K with the rest of India.
Transforming the Energy Sector
The LG emphasized major strides in the power sector, highlighting key hydropower projects such as Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle, which will add 3,014 MW to the region’s energy capacity. He noted that additional projects, including Dulhasti-II and Kirthai-I, are in the pipeline, reinforcing J&K as a renewable energy hub.
Under the PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, over 80,000 households in J&K are being equipped with solar power, furthering the administration’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Industrial Expansion & Handicraft Revival
The Central Sector Scheme, with an allocation of ₹28,400 crore, is driving industrial development in J&K. “Under this initiative, 971 industrial units have already been registered, while 1,150 are in the process of availing benefits,” he stated, adding that 324 new units will commence production soon.
J&K’s rich heritage in craftsmanship has received a boost, with 10 traditional crafts securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags, while 19 more are in the process of approval, helping artisans gain global recognition.
Advancements in Healthcare
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana – SEHAT scheme has provided 15.35 lakh free treatments, saving patients approximately ₹2,765 crore in medical expenses, ensuring financial security and better access to quality healthcare.
Education & Research Excellence
The government aims to establish J&K as an educational hub, upgrading schools with Atal Tinkering Laboratories to promote innovation and skill development. “Capacity-building programs for teachers are being prioritized to enhance the quality of education,” LG Sinha said.
In higher education, IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu are fully operational, while Jammu University has retained its A++ NAAC accreditation. The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) is leading in skill development and research.
Faculty from Kashmir University have been recognized among the top 2% of global scientists, while institutions like Cluster University of Jammu and IUST are contributing to high-end research and patent filings.
Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, digital infrastructure is being introduced to strengthen research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among students, fostering a culture of self-reliance.
Rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits
The government remains committed to the safe and dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits. “Transit accommodations for pandit employees are being expedited to provide suitable housing and a secure environment,” the LG assured.
Legislative Session & Governance
The 40-day Budget Session of the J&K Legislative Assembly includes 22 sittings, with two days reserved for Private Members’ Resolutions and one for Private Members’ Bills. This is the first full-fledged budget session in seven years under an elected government.
“This session is not just a formality; it reflects our commitment to good governance, transparency, and inclusive development. The Budget represents the aspirations of the people, crafted by their elected representatives,” Sinha stated.
Expressing confidence in J&K’s future, he said, “For the first time in seven years, elected representatives are shaping governance, ensuring the aspirations of the people are at the heart of decision-making. Our collective efforts will transform Jammu and Kashmir into a symbol of peace, progress, and prosperity.”
