Anantnag, April 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated Jashn-e-Amad-e-Bahar, the Spring Festival marking Baisakhi, at Jablipora in Anantnag.

Addressing a large gathering, the Chief Minister said spring symbolizes renewal and hope, adding that the festival reflects not only a seasonal change but also a new phase of development and governance in Jammu & Kashmir.
He said that recent government initiatives, including free LPG cylinders for poor households and free electricity under the Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, are aimed at providing relief to people and improving living standards.
Highlighting reforms in the education sector, he said the government has opened doors for private universities to establish campuses in Jammu & Kashmir, enabling students to pursue higher education within the region instead of migrating outside.
Omar Abdullah reiterated that his government is focused on strengthening agriculture and allied sectors through modernization, value addition, and infrastructure development to boost farmers’ income and promote rural prosperity.
He said South Kashmir has immense potential for agro-tourism due to its fertile land and scenic beauty, including lavender fields, mustard landscapes, and paddy fields, which can generate new livelihood opportunities.
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of developing a strong dairy sector, describing it as key to building a “White Revolution” in the region through improved infrastructure, livestock support, and market linkages.
The event, organized by the Agriculture Production Department, was attended by ministers, advisors, legislators, senior officers, and other officials