Srinagar, Feb 2: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday called on all Members of the Legislative Assembly to work in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility to build a peaceful, inclusive, and progressive Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing the opening day of the Budget Session, Sinha emphasized unity of purpose, transforming challenges into opportunities, and fulfilling the aspirations of the people. He noted that the formation of an elected government after several years has strengthened public faith in democratic institutions and participatory governance.
Sinha highlighted that the development trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir is guided by the principles of Economy, Ecology, and Equity, and stressed that good governance, transparency, accountability, and digital service delivery remain cornerstones of the administration. Over 1,500 public services are now available online, with 391 services integrated with an auto-appeal system to ensure timely delivery.
On economic progress, Sinha said the Union Territory recorded an annual nominal growth rate of around 11% in 2024-25, reflecting policy reforms, infrastructure development, and investment facilitation. The government aims to consolidate growth while creating diversified and sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women.
Sinha reaffirmed the government’s commitment to timely elections for local bodies, strengthening democratic institutions, and enhancing grievance redressal mechanisms.
Tourism, he said, remains a vital pillar of J&K’s economy, with 1.78 crore tourist visits in 2025 despite security incidents and natural calamities. The opening of the Chrysanthemum Garden, Bagh-e-Gul-e Dawood, in October 2025 aims to promote Kashmir as a year-round destination. Special focus is being given to pilgrim tourism in Jammu, adventure tourism in Kashmir, and eco-tourism in tribal and border areas.
On infrastructure, Sinha noted historic milestones in power, transport, and connectivity. Major hydropower projects—Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle—totaling 3,014 MW are under execution. Distribution and transmission capacities have expanded by 5,708 MVA and 4,239 MVA, respectively, with 10.44 lakh smart prepaid meters installed and full coverage targeted by 2026-27. Renewable energy adoption has grown through solarisation of over 6,700 government buildings and 16,800 households under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Railway connectivity to Kashmir has opened new avenues for trade, tourism, and economic progress, with a full-fledged railway division sanctioned and modernization of Jammu Tawi station underway. Roads have seen Rs 61,528 crore investment, including expressways, national highways, ring roads, and tunnels. Key projects completed or under construction include the Sonamarg Tunnel and the Zojila Tunnel, while 19 new National Highway projects worth Rs 10,637 crore have been sanctioned for 2025-26 to improve connectivity and urban mobility.
Sinha underscored that the Budget Session offers an opportunity to reflect on achievements, chart a clear roadmap for the future, and reaffirm the collective commitment to the development and welfare of Jammu and Kashmir.