Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 7: Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir, Sunil Sharma, has expressed strong disapproval of the recently presented state budget, accusing it of overlooking provisions for daily wage labourers, the unemployed, and marginalized communities such as OBCs, SCs, and STs.
Speaking to reporters, Sharma questioned the allocations for these crucial groups, stating, “What has Omar Abdullah kept in this budget for daily wage labourers and the unemployed? During the Lt. Governor’s administration, 45 thousand people got direct and indirect employment in J&K… The budget doesn’t have any provisions for the OBC, SC, or ST communities… None of the promises they (J&K government) made to the people are reflected in the budget.”
On the other hand, while presenting the state’s budget, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized that the region is on the path to lasting peace. This is the first budget presented by the elected government in the last seven years, and Abdullah stressed the importance of aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and improving GST compliance in the region.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the budget focuses on empowering youth and women, addressing regional disparities, and striving for the restoration of statehood. As part of the budget, Rs 815 crore has been allocated to agriculture with the goal of generating 2.88 lakh jobs. The plan includes promoting a two-crop pattern, expanding horticulture, and boosting industries like wool processing and leather tanning to help strengthen the local economy.
Tourism is another key area of focus in the budget. With a projected 2.36 crore tourists expected in 2024, the government is looking to develop new tourism initiatives. This includes events like the Kashmir Marathon, which attracted 1,800 global participants, and promoting emerging tourist spots such as Shiv Khori and Dudh Pathri. The government has set aside Rs 390.20 crore for tourism development, including plans to increase homestays, promote water sports, and develop Sonmarg as a winter sports destination. Additionally, Jammu will see a new water park in Sidhra, while Basholi will be developed as an adventure destination.
Abdullah reiterated the importance of transparency in welfare measures and emphasized the government’s focus on empowering sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and local industries. He also expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Finance Minister for their continued support and cooperation in the state’s development.