Govt ensuring inclusivity in budgeting process: CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu, Feb 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday said that the government was ensuring inclusivity in the budgeting process.

Continuing with the pre-budget consultations for the third consecutive day, CM Omar engaged in extensive discussions with public representatives and key stakeholders to gain firsthand insights into the issues and developmental priorities of various sectors and districts.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Education Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Administrative Secretaries of Finance, Social Welfare, Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Youth Services and Sports, Deputy Commissioners of Pulwama and Reasi districts, and heads of various departments, both in person and virtually.

Public representatives, including District Development Council (DDC) chairpersons and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Pulwama and Reasi districts, raised concerns regarding electricity supply, drinking water schemes, flood management, staffing of schools and hospitals, upgradation of primary health centres, construction of bridges, and the development of new tourist destinations, parks, and parking facilities.

Addressing the participants, CM Omar emphasised that these consultations were essential for shaping a budget that truly reflects the aspirations of the people.

He acknowledged the pivotal role of public representatives in understanding grassroots-level challenges and assured them that their concerns would be duly considered.

The CM said that this budget held special significance as it was the first time in many years that J&K was preparing its own budget in consultation with public representatives.

He said that these consultations were an effort to ensure inclusivity in the budgeting process.

“In the past, it was not possible for the Finance Minister of the country to meet with you all and discuss J&K’s specific needs. But after the elections and the formation of our government, we now have the authority to draft our own budget, making these interactions even more crucial,” CM Omar said.

He said that over 33 interventions had been made during the session, reflecting the wide range of developmental issues requiring attention.

The CM assured the participants that while it was not possible to address each demand immediately, “nothing that has been said here will be ignored” and that all concerns would be carefully examined during budget formulation.

Touching upon economic growth and industrial development, he stressed the need to support manufacturing, trade, and tourism.

CM Omar noted the expansion of the railway network, highlighting how connectivity had gradually improved from Pathankot to Jammu, then to Udhampur and Katra, with plans for the train to reach Srinagar this year.

However, he said that apprehensions over Jammu’s economy should be addressed from the adverse effects of shifting trade patterns, ensuring that the region continues to thrive as a commercial hub.

On tourism, the CM emphasised that Jammu had immense potential, particularly in religious and pilgrimage tourism.

“If marketed and promoted effectively, Jammu province can become India’s top destination for religious tourism,” he said.

CM Omar said that while most visitors come for Mata Vaishno Devi’s pilgrimage, efforts should be made to showcase Jammu’s other sacred sites, encouraging yatris to extend their stay and explore the region’s cultural heritage.

He also stressed the importance of sports tourism, stating that discussions were underway for organising a major sports event in Jammu, similar to the successful Srinagar Marathon.

The CM said that plans were also in place for the expansion of Jammu Airport, addressing infrastructural challenges to improve connectivity.

He expressed his support for private education, stating that J&K should explore legislative frameworks to encourage the establishment of private universities, providing more opportunities for quality higher education.

CM Omar thanked all participants for their valuable input, assuring them that their concerns and suggestions would be incorporated into the government’s policies and development agenda.

“We will try to ensure that your ideas are reflected in our policies and programs. Your time and efforts in this consultation process are truly appreciated,” he said.

In a separate pre-budget consultation session, CM Omar Abdullah met with representatives from various sectors, including industry and trade, tourism, hotel and hospitality, education, social welfare, tribal affairs, youth affairs, and agriculture.

During the session, stakeholders from various sectors, including industry and trade, tourism, hotel and hospitality, education, social welfare, tribal affairs, youth affairs, and agriculture, put forth several key demands.

They emphasised the need for developing Jammu as a religious and pilgrimage tourism hub, expanding private education opportunities, enhancing sports infrastructure, and strengthening support for tribal communities.

Additionally, discussions were held on boosting tourism, improving trade policies, and fostering industrial growth to drive economic development in the region.

During his interaction, CM Omar reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the upcoming J&K budget reflects the aspirations of the people, incorporating their demands into the government’s development agenda.