In Jammu and Kashmir, the highly anticipated Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly has begun with a ceremonial address by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Legislative Assembly complex in Jammu today. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that in his address, the LG stated that this Budget is historically significant as it is the first in seven years presented by an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, symbolizing the power of the people. He said that this Budget is not merely a financial document, it is a testament to the aspirations of the masses reflecting their hopes for a brighter future. The LG also emphasized women’s empowerment, sustainable farming, enhancing J&K’s connectivity more closely with the rest of the nation, youth empowerment and the government’s focus on transforming Jammu and Kashmir into an educational hub among other important things. Speaking on the occasion, the LG said that Jammu and Kashmir are witnessing a new era of progress with self-employment and startup support programmes enabling thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into thriving businesses fostering innovation and creativity.

In Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said the government is committed to fulfilling the long-standing demand for statehood in Jammu and Kashmir. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that he made the remarks during his address on the first day of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly’s budget session in Jammu today. The LG said that the government is dedicated to engaging with stakeholders until the desire for statehood is realised. He said the government is committed to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and we will continue to engage with all stakeholders to achieve this goal. The LG added that the government is committed to facilitating the return of Kashmiri pandits and creating a safe and conducive environment for it. He also said the government is committed to strengthening the Panchayat and Urban Local Bodies by ensuring timely elections in the Union Territory. The budget session, which began today with the LG’s address, is expected to witness heated debates as opposition parties, including BJP, PDP, and Peoples Conference, are set to corner the government on a range of issues. Key issues likely to dominate the session include election commitments, the abrogation of Article 370, and the ongoing reservation row.