Jammu, Feb 6, KNT: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday presented his second Budget as Finance Minister in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, unveiling what he described as a people-first roadmap aimed at inclusive growth, social protection and long-term economic stability.
Opening his Budget speech with a poetic couplet titled “Safar Jaari Hai”, Omar Abdullah said the Budget 2026–27 seeks to lay strong foundations for sustained economic growth, social harmony and shared prosperity. He said the government remains committed to transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a modern and economically vibrant region.
The Chief Minister announced 32 major welfare initiatives, including six free LPG cylinders annually for Antyodaya Anna Yojana families, fee waivers for AAY students from Class 9 to undergraduate level, and monthly sponsorship support for 6,000 orphan children under non-institutional care.
Key healthcare announcements included setting up emergency and trauma hospitals at Uri and Poonch, commissioning the extension block of Lal Ded Hospital Srinagar, expansion of cardiology and cancer care services, and construction of a 249-bedded Mother and Child Care Hospital at GMC Anantnag.
📢 8,000+ readers already joined for instant Kashmir News Trust updates
The Budget also laid emphasis on agriculture and horticulture, with insurance cover for major crops, expansion of CA storage capacity, irrigation subsidies and continued push for the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme. Measures were also announced to strengthen livestock breeding, rural sanitation and tribal livelihoods.
On employment, Omar Abdullah said industrial units availing government incentives will be required to prioritise local youth. He highlighted progress under Mission YUVA and announced plans to scale it up further.
The Chief Minister said total gross receipts for 2026–27 are estimated at Rs 1.27 lakh crore, with GSDP projected at Rs 3.15 lakh crore, reflecting 9.5 percent growth. He also underlined reforms in digital financial governance and increased capital investment under central assistance schemes.
Concluding his address, Omar Abdullah said the Budget strengthens welfare delivery, boosts infrastructure and aims to build a more inclusive and resilient Jammu and Kashmir. [KNT]
