Govt to strengthen democratic institutions: LG

Jammu, Feb 2: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday, while reiterating governmentís commitment to further strengthening democratic institutions, asserted that the timely conduct of elections to local bodies, bolstered grievance redressal mechanisms, and integration of digital governance would reinforce transparency, accountability, and participatory governance.

LG Sinha, in his customary address, delineated the year-long performance account of the elected government, on the opening day of the budget session of the J&K Legislative Assembly.

He pointed out that the principles of economy, ecology and equity were guiding the development trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir.

In this connection, he exhorted all the legislators to work together in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility to build ìpeaceful, progressive, inclusive, and prosperous J&K.î

Lieutenant Governor, while representing the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led dispensation, said that the government during its first year in office sought to ìcombine development with dignity, growth with social justice, and progress with peace.î

His address, which enlisted a long list of achievements of the government, mainly revolving around the promises made during the last yearís budget session, also referred to another major issue of daily wagers and other categories of employees.

In his address the LG said,

“It is my privilege to address this august House at the commencement of the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly. This session holds special significance, as it offers an opportunity to reflect on our collective journey, review our achievements, and chart a clear roadmap for the future. It also provides a moment to reaffirm our shared commitment to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

He said that for him, this occasion represents not merely an accounting of resources or outcomes, but a reflection of vision for a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Jammu and Kashmir. “I extend my sincere gratitude to every citizen contributing to this transformationóour farmers, workers, artisans, youth, women, entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare professionals, security personnel, and public servants. Their dedication and perseverance constitute the bedrock of our progress,” LG Sinha said.

He said that the past year marked a significant milestone in the democratic journey of Jammu and Kashmir with the formation of an elected government after a gap of several years.

“This transition to popular governance has strengthened public faith in democratic institutions. My government has focused on restoring participatory governance, rebuilding public confidence, and ensuring that the voice of every region and community finds expression in policy making,” the LG said.

He said that the development trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir continues to be guided by the foundational principles of economy, ecology, and equity.

“These principles are not merely aspirational, but serve as the guiding framework for policy formulation and implementation. While notable progress has been achieved across sectors, the government remains conscious of the need for sustained and focused efforts to ensure balanced, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable development,” LG Sinha said.

He said good governance continues to be the cornerstone of the governmentís development strategy in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Sustained reforms in transparency, accountability, digital governance, and citizen-centric service delivery have significantly strengthened public trust and institutional efficiency. The digital transformation has imparted new momentum to development and reinforced corruption-free governance, with over 1500 public services available online and 391 services integrated with the auto-appeal system to ensure timely delivery,” LG Sinha said.

He said that during the last one year, the government had placed renewed emphasis on responsive and people-centric administration.

“Regular public grievance redressal meetings at the Chief Ministerís outreach Office and the strengthening of JK Samadhan portal have ensured that governance reaches the doorstep of citizens. Thousands of grievances have been resolved through time-bound interventions, reinforcing trust between the government and the people,” the LG said.

He said that during the previous year, J&K recorded 82 crore e-transactions, averaging over 22 lakh transactions per day, while 128 services have been integrated with DigiLocker. “Complete Aadhaar seeding of welfare beneficiaries has enabled seamless Direct Benefit Transfer, under which Rs 9000 crore has been credited directly to the accounts of 80 lakh beneficiaries through 77 DBT-based schemes in the current financial year. Complementing these efforts, a comprehensive AI strategy is being formulated to drive innovation and efficiency across priority sectors including healthcare, agriculture, mobility, education, and law enforcement,” LG Sinha said.

He said that the economy of Jammu and Kashmir had demonstrated encouraging momentum in recent years.

“J&K is presently recording an annual nominal growth rate of around 11 percent (2024-25), reflecting the positive outcomes of sustained policy reforms, enhanced infrastructure development, and proactive investment facilitation. The government remains committed to consolidating this growth trajectory through strengthened fiscal discipline and by creating diversified and sustainable employment opportunities, with particular emphasis on youth and women,” the LG said.

He said J&K was one of the fastest-growing states and UTs in the country.

“GST revenue collection has shown steady growth from Rs 8064 crore in 2023-24 to Rs 8586 crore in 2024-25. Tariff from electric power has witnessed a substantial increase of 16 percent in 2024-25,” LG Sinha said.

He said Special Assistance to States for Capital Infusion (SASCI) for interest free loans for capital investments had been extended to J&K from the current financial year. “Under SASCI, Rs 1431 crore has been sanctioned for 222 projects and Rs 210 crore as matching share for 12 centrally sponsored schemes. First instalment of Rs 1083 crore (66 percent of sanctioned amount) has been received,” the LG said.

He said that with support of J&K government, Jammu and Kashmir Bank had undertaken various reforms for professionalisation of management, meritocratic selection of top posts, and capital infusion.

LG Sinha said that this had resulted in turnaround of the bank by improving the net NPA and improved its capital adequacy.

He said that infrastructure development continues to be a critical driver of economic transformation in J&K.

“The road sector in J&K has witnessed unprecedented investment amounting to Rs 61,528 crore, encompassing expressways, National Highways, ring roads, and tunnels, significantly enhancing regional and inter-regional connectivity. Three major tunnels, including the Sonamarg Tunnel, have been completed, while eight others, including the strategic Zojila Tunnel, are at advanced stages of completion. The Narbal-Shopian-Surankote road has been declared a National Highway, further strengthening all-weather connectivity across the Pir Panjal region,” the LG said.

He said that in addition, 19 new National Highway Projects with an estimated cost of Rs 10,637 crore had been sanctioned for 2025-26, which include key infrastructure works such as the Pir Ki Gali Tunnel, Sadhna Tunnel, Lal Chowk-Parimpora Flyover, and Magam Flyover, aimed at decongesting urban centres and improving mobility.

“My government places on record its deep appreciation to the Government of India for the launch of PMGSY-IV, which will ensure road connectivity to 2400 unconnected habitations. Under Phase-I of this programme, 316 projects involving an investment of Rs 4,224 crore have already been sanctioned, covering a total road length of 1781 km,” LG Sinha said.

He said that in a historic milestone, Kashmir had been connected with the rest of the country through the railway network, opening new avenues for trade, tourism, and economic progress.

“A full-fledged Railway Division has also been sanctioned for Jammu and Kashmir and expansion and modernisation of Jammu Tawi Railway Station is under progress. The first-ever FCI food-grain freight train to Kashmir has been operationalised, integrating the region with the national freight network and ensuring year-round logistics, reduced pressure on NH-44, and faster economic activity,” the LG said.

He said that the expansion of Jammu Airport was progressing steadily, and the introduction of evening flight operations had further strengthened air connectivity.

“Power sector has been one of the priority sectors of my government which is witnessing structural transformation. Major Hydropower Projects-Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle, with a combined capacity of 3014 MW, are under active execution. Over the past five years, a record 5708 MVA has been added to the distribution sector and 4239 MVA to the transmission sector. Installation of smart prepaid meters is underway in mission mode, with 10.44 lakh smart meters already installed, and 100 percent coverage targeted by 2026-27. As a result, losses have been reduced by 9 percent, while revenue realisation has increased by 16 percent. In parallel, the solarisation of government buildings and households under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is further strengthening the J&Kís renewable energy footprint. Over 6700 government buildings and more than 16,800 households have been solarised, reducing electricity costs and enhancing energy security.

Recognising the hardships faced by citizens, especially during winter months, the government undertook daily monitoring of power supply and directed targeted interventions to ensure better electricity availability. Special focus was laid on uninterrupted supply during religious occasions, examinations, and peak winter and summer months. A transparent schedule based power distribution mechanism was put in place to minimise inconvenience to consumers.

On the recommendation of J&K Government, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, GoI, has accorded approval to a project for providing 200 free units of electricity to 2.23 lakh AAY families of Jammu and Kashmir under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna- Utility Led aggregation (ULA) model. Implementation is going to start soon,” LG Sinha said.

He said his government was making efforts to provide safe, adequate, and sustainable drinking water to every household through Jal Jeevan Mission.

“Majority of the rural households, have been provided tap water connections, marking significant progress towards universal coverage. Major infrastructure projects such as the Shahpur Kandi Dam and the New Pratap Canal reflect the governmentís sustained commitment to strengthening irrigation infrastructure and long-term water security in the region’” the LG said.

He said tourism continues to be a vital pillar of the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Despite challenges arising from security-related incidents and natural calamities, J&K recorded 1.78 crore tourist visits in 2025. Recognising its potential, tourism has been accorded industry status to attract investment and generate employment. First ever Chrysanthemum Garden ‘Bagh-e-Gul-e- Dawood’ has been thrown open for tourists from October 2025. With more than 50 vibrant varieties, this garden is a strategic cornerstone in our mission to transition Kashmir into a year-round destination. Just as the Tulip Garden defines our spring, Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood is set to become the definitive icon of our autumn, inviting the world to witness the beauty of Kashmir during the autumn. This is going to attract the tourists in the lean season. Recognising tourism as a lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, the government undertook confidence-building measures, improved facilitation, and strengthened coordination with stakeholders. Special efforts were made to revive pilgrim tourism in Jammu, adventure tourism in Kashmir, and eco-tourism in tribal and border areas, ensuring equitable regional growth. My Government is going to introduce a major project for sustainable development of emerging tourist destinations with investment from government funding as well as private sector participation to broaden the tourism footprint in J&K. This will generate employment opportunities and ensure that the benefits of tourism reach remote and unexplored areas. The programme will focus on developing new tourist destinations, promoting homestays, rural and border tourism, and encouraging community participation in tourism activities,” LG Sinha said

He said the Kashmir Marathon was a flagship initiative positioning the region as a premier sports and wellness destination.

“Following its 2024 debut, the 2025 edition grew significantly, attracting over 1000 runners and international athletes from 11 countries. Besides, maiden edition of the Jammu Marathon is set for March 2026,” the LG said.

He said his government was also focusing on revitalising the agriculture and allied sectors through the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), aimed at transforming traditional farming into a modern, diversified, and remunerative enterprise.

“Strengthening post-harvest infrastructure and market integration remains a key priority. Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage capacity has increased to 2.92 lakh metric tonnes through public and private investment, with an additional 15,000 MT being added this year, raising the total to 3.07 lakh MT. To improve returns, 17 mandis have been integrated with the e-NAM platform, registering 55,355 farmers, traders, FPOs, and stakeholders, and facilitating trade worth Rs 1680.34 crore involving 28.26 lakh quintals of agricultural and horticultural produce. Crop diversification has gained strong momentum, with cultivated area expanding by 6.22 percent, from 12.71 lakh hectares to

13.50 lakh hectares. A focused effort to strengthen the seed ecosystem has improved the Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) from 12 percent to 22 percent, enhancing productivity and resilience. The ‘Yellow Revolution’ has emerged as a significant income source in Kashmir, with oilseed area increasing from 1.4 lakh hectares to 2.1 lakh hectares, leading to doubling of production. Honey production has also risen sharply from 2200 MT to over 3895 MT in the last three years, placing Jammu and Kashmir among the countryís leading honey producers,” LG Sinha said.

He said that fish production had also recorded a sharp acceleration of 16 percent from 25.40 thousand tonnes in 2021-22 to 29.40 thousand tonnes in 2024-25 highlighting the impact of targeted interventions.

“To protect farmers from climatic and market risks, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has been implemented across all 20 districts. During Kharif 2025, over 2.01 lakh farmers were covered, and for Rabi 2025-26, coverage is proposed for nearly 40,000 hectares, supported by awareness and enrolment campaigns. Insurance coverage is also being extended to horticulture crops. Kissan Khidmat Ghars have emerged as a key institutional support system, integrating over seven lakh farmers and enabling access to government services, welfare schemes, and expert advisories, thereby strengthening last- mile delivery. To preserve agricultural heritage, GI tags have been secured for seven products – Kashmir Saffron, Jammu Basmati, Bhaderwah Rajma, Sulai Honey (Ramban), Kalari (Ramnagar), Anardana (Ramban), and Mushkbudji rice – while 20 more products are at various stages of registration. Further, SKUAST Jammu has established a state-of-the-art Ex-Situ Gene Bank, the third in the country, for conserving valuable genetic resources,” the LG said.

He said that the dairy and livestock sector had recorded sustained growth through breed improvement, expanded artificial insemination, and better animal management. “Annual milk production has reached 28.75 lakh metric tonnes. Mutton production increased from 318.64 lakh kg in 2020-21 to 376.06 lakh kg in 2024-25, reflecting nearly 18 percent growth, while wool production rose from 68.45 lakh kg to 79.90 lakh kg, registering over 16 percent growth. To strengthen the organised dairy sector, one 50,000 LPD UHT Milk Processing Plant has been established and commissioned at Jammu during 2025-26 under National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD). Another one lakh LPD plant at Budgam has also been sanctioned by Government of India under the said scheme,” LG Sinha said.

He said that to enhance transparency, efficiency, and outreach in agricultural credit delivery, 537 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) had been successfully onboarded onto a digital platform and linked with District Central Cooperative Banks.

“This initiative marks a decisive shift from manual record-keeping to seamless, technology-driven operations, strengthening the cooperative credit ecosystem across J&K,” the LG said.

He said healthcare infrastructure in J&K had witnessed significant strengthening.

“The establishment of AIIMS Jammu, cancer institutes, expansion of medical colleges, augmentation of critical care facilities and dialysis centres are ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare across J&K. AIIMS Kashmir is likely to be completed shortly. A total of 548 medical seats including 340 MBBS, 128 PG, 34 PG Ayurveda, and 46 DNB seats have been added during the current year which will further improve the healthcare delivery system as well as creation of more opportunities for the youth in the medical science. A 160-bedded state-of-the-art block opened at the Bone and Joint Hospital, Srinagar in July 2025 significantly enhancing orthopaedic and trauma care for the region. New Cath Labs have been launched at GMC, Anantnag and GMC, Jammu, with two more being established at GMC Rajouri and Baramulla to expand specialised cardiac care. To enhance management of medical emergencies and infectious outbreaks, 17 Critical Care Blocks (two 100-bedded and twelve 50-bedded) are under construction under PM-ABHIM. Once completed, these projects will add 950 critical care beds to the current capacity. Additionally, 20 Integrated District Public Health Labs are also under construction to modernise and streamline diagnostic services at the district level. Various digital initiatives have been taken to improve the health care service delivery. SEHAT APP has been launched to bring health care services and patients under one digital platform. A total of 15 lakh users have been registered so far with thousands of them availing various services. Tele ICUs are being established in 7 GMCs on Hub and Spoke model to provide round the clock specialist services to the patients,” LG Sinha said.

He said that the education sector was undergoing comprehensive transformation. “Implementation of the National Education Policy, introduction of smart classrooms, ATAL Tinkering Laboratories, STEM facilities, and ICT labs are improving learning outcomes. A total of 172 Atal Tinkering Labs have already been established and 500 more are being established under Atal Innovation Mission of NITI Aayog. Further, 1420 CAL (Computer Aided and Learning) Centers and 1588 ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Labs stand established. A total of 1512 ICT Labs and 4000 Smart Classrooms are in process of establishment. Records of 34.50 lakh students of class 10th, 11th & 12th has been uploaded on DigiLocker by JK BOSE, to facilitate the students under digital transformation.

396 schools are being upgraded under the PM- SHRI Yojana, in the first phase. Vidya Samiksha Kendra has been set up and made operational for data-driven decision making and educational improvements. To expand access, the government is launching JK e-Pathshala, a free TV channel broadcasting curriculum-based lessons and lectures in local languages. The attainment of A++ accreditation by the higher educational institutions, along with advances in higher education and research, reflects the governmentís commitment to academic excellence. University of Jammu and University of Kashmir have been accredited with A++ grade by NAAC. A total of 74 Government Degree Colleges have also received NAAC accreditation and efforts are being made to ensure that all colleges achieve this standard for quality education. Five new college buildings – GDC, Purmandal (Samba), GDC, Boniyar (Baramulla), GDC, Domel Pouni (Reasi), GDC, Hyderpora (Srinagar) and GDC, Eidgah (Srinagar) – have been completed during this year and three more college buildings-l – GDC, Nagrota (Jammu), GDC, Kakryal Katra (Reasi), and GDC, Vailoo Larnoo (Anantnag) – are likely to be completed in 2026,” the LG said.

He said urban development had gained momentum through focused implementation of the Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT, and Swachh Bharat Mission. “Improvements in urban mobility, solid waste management, introduction of e-buses, and pollution mitigation initiatives are enhancing the quality of life in urban centres. Under the Smart City Mission, 277 projects have been completed. Under AMRUT II, 90 projects with an estimated cost of more than Rs 1000 crore. have been approved, out of which 17 have been completed and 67 are under execution. These projects are aimed to improve the sanitation, water supply and rejuvenation of water bodies.

Through the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, the government is focusing on transforming urban landscapes into Garbage-Free areas through enhanced sanitation and waste management. A total of 78 ULBs have been certified Open Defecation Free (ODF). 49 Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) have been completed along with 50 compost pits and construction of 16 more MRFs and 14 compost pits is in progress for processing of dry and wet waste in Urban Local Bodies. Two Compressed Biogas (CBG) Projects have been taken up for Jammu and Srinagar cities. Work in Jammu city is in progress and project report for Srinagar city has been prepared,” LG Sinha said.

He said his government was ensuring proper shelter along-with access to all basic facilities for every poor family. “A total of 3.21 lakh houses have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin and work on remaining 14,000 is under progress. Land is being provided to all landless beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. My government has taken a compassionate initiative to provide 5 marlas of land to families who have lost their residential land due to landslides, floods and other natural calamities. This welfare measure is aimed at ensuring rehabilitation, security and dignity for affected households. The scheme is being implemented through a transparent process so that displaced and vulnerable families are able to rebuild their homes and lives with timely government support,” the LG said.

He said that J&K was undergoing a major industrial transformation.

“Since 2020, 2227 organised industrial units with an investment of Rs 15,940 crore have commenced production, generating employment for over 73,800 persons. Another 1028 units, involving a proposed investment of Rs 27,613 crore, are under implementation, of which 396 units are expected to commence production by March 2026. Incentives under the New Central Sector Scheme are being provided for promotion of Industries. Further, 1316 startups, including 471 women-led enterprises, have been registered on the Startup India Portal. During 2025-26, 6050 self-employment enterprises have been set up under Prime Ministerís Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and provided margin money of Rs 125.24 crore,” LG Sinha said.

He said that the handloom and handicrafts sector provides livelihoods to nearly 4.45 lakh persons across J&K. “About 7000 cooperative societies are registered, and during 2025-26, 188 cooperatives received financial assistance. To give global recognition to the traditional crafts of Jammu and Kashmir, GI tagging has been granted to 18 handicraft products, while 17 more are under registration. Sustained reforms to improve ease of doing business have positioned Jammu and Kashmir at 5th rank nationally under the Business Reform Action Plan. Artisans and weavers are being actively supported through institutional credit and cooperative-based assistance. Over the last two years, more than 1600 cooperatives have benefited under schemes supporting artisans and weavers, strengthening livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage. The excellence of artisans from Jammu and Kashmir has received national acclaim, with four artisans being conferred National Honours, including the Shilp Guru Award and National Awards for Handicrafts, by the President of India on 9th December 2025 at New Delhi, including awards for Sozni embroidery and handmade carpets,” the LG said.

He said that social welfare remains central to the governmentís governance agenda.

“Targeted interventions for senior citizens, women, children, persons with disabilities, and marginalised communities are being implemented with renewed focus. In the past year, the government prioritised social security and compassionate governance. Special measures have been introduced to ensure timely disbursement of pensions, scholarships, and welfare benefits. Financial assistance to vulnerable sections has been streamlined and backlogs cleared on priority to provide relief to deserving families. My government has introduced progressive reforms in social welfare schemes to make them more inclusive and accessible. A major step in this direction has been the rationalisation of eligibility conditions under the Marriage Assistance Scheme (MAS) by removing the restrictive qualification bar. This has enabled a larger number of deserving families to benefit from the scheme and has strengthened the social security net for vulnerable sections. Financial assistance is being paid to more than 10 lakh beneficiaries – old age, widows, and physically challenged persons during the FY 2025-26 under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) and Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS). Monthly Pension (Old Age Pension, Widow Pension, Disability Pension) has been enhanced to Rs 1250 per month for beneficiaries under 60 years, Rs 1500 per month for beneficiaries between 60-79 years and Rs 2000 per month for beneficiaries aged 80 years and above from April 2025,” LG Sinha said.

He said that under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 25 lakh families (approximately 99 lakh individuals) receive ration support.

“Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), free ration is being provided to 16.62 lakh households. Following the Budget announcement by Chief Minister in the Legislative Assembly in 2025, additional 5 kg free ration is being provided to AAY families from April 2025,” the LG said.

He said that the creation of 2 lakh Lakhpati Didis, expansion of Self-Help Groups, and livelihood- centric initiatives were strengthening rural womenís economic participation and household incomes.

“Special emphasis is being placed on the welfare of tribal communities through the establishment of hostels, Eklavya Model Residential Schools, scholarship support, and effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act. Reservation reforms have further strengthened representation and inclusivity in public institutions. In a major institutional reform aimed at empowering tribal communities, my government has transferred the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) from the Forest Department to the Tribal Affairs Department. This step has ensured greater sensitivity, accountability and focused attention towards the rights and welfare of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. Individual and community forest rights are now being processed in a more transparent and efficient manner, thereby strengthening livelihoods, preserving traditional practices, and promoting social justice for tribal populations,” LG Sinha said.

He said that youth empowerment remains central to government’s development vision.

“Through Mission YUVA, the Government is fostering entrepreneurship by providing comprehensive skilling, mentorship, and financial support, thereby enabling young people to become job creators and active contributors to economic growth and social stability. Mission YUVA adopts a holistic framework encompassing capacity building, credit enablement, career counselling, job matching through a dedicated digital portal, and market access via the ONDC buyer app. Under its capacity-building component, over 5000 youth have already completed entrepreneurship development training. The mission aims to establish 1.35 lakh entrepreneurial units and generate employment opportunities for 4.5 lakh youth. In its first year of implementation, more than 1.51 lakh youth registered on the platform. Of these, over 61,900 applied under credit-linked schemes, with more than 12,000 cases sanctioned, involving loans exceeding Rs 800 crore- clearly reflecting the rising entrepreneurial aspirations of our youth. Building upon the success of Mission YUVA, my government has further expanded its scope through the establishment of district-level youth facilitation centres, enhanced start-up mentorship, and stronger credit linkages with financial institutions. Special programmes have been introduced to encourage innovation, skill development, and self-employment among educated youth. These initiatives are transforming job seekers into job creators and nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial culture. Beyond employment generation, the government has actively engaged with the youth through structured dialogue, sports initiatives, and skill development programmes. Youth engagement programs and interactions with students, civil society groups and young entrepreneurs are held to align policies with their aspirations and to channel their energies towards constructive nation-building,” the LG said.

He said that his government had accorded high priority to sports as a medium of youth engagement and social empowerment.

“District-level sports infrastructure is being strengthened, new playgrounds are being developed, and structured talent identification programmes have been initiated. Special emphasis is being laid on promoting rural sports, organising inter-district leagues, and providing professional coaching facilities. These initiatives are enabling young sports persons from Jammu and Kashmir to compete confidently at National and International levels. While sustained investment in sports infrastructure and successful hosting of national and international sporting events are positioning Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging hub for sporting excellence like Khelo India Winter Sports, Khelo Water sports festival, Kashmir Super League etc.

As we move forward, my government remains firmly committed to further strengthening democratic institutions,” LG Sinha said.

He said that timely conduct of elections to local bodies, continued enhancement of grievance redressal mechanisms, and deeper integration of digital governance would reinforce transparency, accountability, and participatory governance.

“My government has ensured transparent, merit-based recruitment, with 7650 government posts filled during 2025, while the recruitment process for an additional 23,800 posts is currently underway. During the year, 910 compassionate appointments were made, including

464 appointments to the Next of Kin of terror-affected families, thereby ensuring dignified livelihoods for families impacted by tragedy and violence,” the LG said.

He said that the government during its first year in office had sought to combine development with dignity, growth with social justice, and progress with peace.

“Guided by the vision of inclusive governance, it remains committed to addressing the challenges of unemployment, infrastructure gaps, and social welfare with renewed energy and determination. The government has adopted a humane and compassionate approach in dealing with issues affecting common citizens. Emphasis has been placed on fair treatment, dignity, and sensitivity in administration. Decisions affecting employees, daily wagers, contractual workers, and marginalised groups have been examined with empathy and corrective steps initiated wherever required. My government has introduced the facility of free public transport for women. This initiative has significantly improved urban mobility, reduced transportation costs for families, and encouraged greater use of public transport. The expansion of e-bus services and modernisation of urban transport systems are further contributing to cleaner, affordable, and efficient mobility solutions,” LG Sinha said.

He called upon all members of the House to work together in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility.

“Let us move forward with unity of purpose, transform challenges into opportunities, and collectively strive to build a Jammu and Kashmir that is peaceful, progressive, inclusive, and prosperous ensuring dignity, opportunity, and hope for every citizen,” the LG said.