Government collaborating with key parties to reinstate regional governance in Jammu and Kashmir

In a significant development, Manoj Sinha's government in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has expressed its commitment to achieving the restoration of statehood for the region at the earliest. This aspiration, a foremost desire of the citizens of J&K, was emphasised during the Budget Session of the J&K Assembly at the state's winter capital.

The budget, presented by an elected government for the first time in over seven years, symbolises the power of the people. The voices of the people are shaping the allocation of resources and the prioritization of development goals. The budget reflects the hopes for a brighter future of the masses.

Lieutenant-governor Manoj Sinha stated that the J&K Assembly Budget Session is a reflection of the government's commitment to good governance, transparency, and inclusive development. He mentioned that his government recognises the emotional and political significance of statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process.

Sinha's government aims to empower the youth through education, skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Efforts will be intensified to accelerate the construction of transit accommodation projects for migrant employees, providing them with suitable housing at designated locations.

The government is also committed to the dignified rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants (Pandits) back in the Valley by ensuring a safe and secure environment. The L-G's government is committed to preserving the unity in diversity that defines J&K and to maintaining peace and harmony.

In a bid to ensure that the process of restoring statehood ensures peace, stability, and progress, Sinha personally chaired meetings for all 20 districts ahead of the Budget Session, engaging directly with elected representatives to understand their aspirations, regional needs, and development priorities.

It is important to note that J&K was split into two Union territories in August 2019, and the Union territory of J&K saw its first Assembly election being held in September-October 2024. The exact date for the next J&K Legislative Assembly election has not been officially announced yet.

The last Budget Session of the Assembly in the erstwhile state of J&K was held in 2018 under the leadership of chief minister Mehbooba Mufti. This upcoming budget, however, marks a new era in the region's governance, one that is shaped by the people's voice and their aspirations.

In conclusion, this budget is a true celebration of democracy and an expression of the dreams and expectations of every household, every community, and every region of J&K. The restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is considered a legitimate desire by the citizens of J&K, and the government is working diligently to make this desire a reality.