Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that his government is committed to addressing the demand for statehood restoration desired by the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir.
“One of the foremost aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir is the restoration of full statehood. My government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing this legitimate desire of the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir,” Sinha said in his address on the first day of the month-long budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly commenced here.
Lieutenant Governor said, “The government recognises the emotional and political significance of the Statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process in a manner that ensures peace, stability, and progress.”
He further said, “We gather for the first budget session of the newly elected Legislative Assembly; this moment stands as a testament to the strength of our democratic values and the unwavering aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for peace, progress, and prosperity.”
“I extend heartiest congratulations to all elected representatives, who have earned the trust and mandate of the people. You bear the responsibility of fulfilling the aspirations of millions who look to you with hope for stability and growth,” he said.
Lieutenant Governor said, “For the first time this winter, my government—through close coordination between the administration and elected representatives – took comprehensive measures to minimise disruptions to the daily lives of the people during nowfall. This synergy enabled one of the swiftest restorations of essential supplies in Kashmir, including efficient snow clearance.”
Additionally, he said that the power supply remained one of the most reliable, with minimal interruptions, adding, “I appreciate my government for their dedication and unwavering commitment to meeting the expectations of the people and ensuring seamless winter preparedness.”
“This session is not just a legislative formality but a reflection of commitment to good governance, transparency, and inclusive development,” said Sinha.
“This budget carries historic significance as it is the first in over seven years to be presented by an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir,” said the lieutenant governor, adding that it symbolises the people’s power, as it is prepared by the representatives chosen by the people themselves.
“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,” he said.
For the first time, the Chief Minister has personally chaired meetings for all twenty districts separately, engaging directly with elected representatives to understand their aspirations, regional needs, and development priorities in budget formulation. The voices of the people are again shaping the allocation of resources and the prioritisation of development goals, said the Lieutenant Governor.
This budget is a true celebration of democracy-an expression of the dreams and expectations of every household, every community, and every region of Jammu and Kashmir, he added and said, “It marks a moment of renewal and empowerment, where the collective efforts of the people’s representatives are shaping the future of this land. This budget represents a new era of participatory governance, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of the common man remain at the heart of policy making.”
Sinha further said that his government is committed to preserving the unity in diversity that defines Jammu and Kashmir.
“It is firmly committed to maintaining peace and harmony, ensuring that the aspirations of our people are protected from divisive influences and cultivating an inclusive society built on mutual respect and harmony, paving the path to a prosperous and peaceful future,” he stated.
“My government remains fully committed to implementing its promises made to the people as a representation of the people’s aspirations for further political empowerment and for creating an enabling environment for employment, sustainable development, social inclusiveness, and expansion of the economy for enhancing the overall quality of life,” said the Lieutenant Governor.
UNI VBH ARN
