From Democracy to Development: LG Manoj Sinha unveils a bold, inclusive and tech-driven roadmap for Jammu & Kashmir

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Monday presented a comprehensive and forward-looking vision for Jammu and Kashmir while addressing the Legislative Assembly at the commencement of the Budget Session, outlining a transformative roadmap anchored in Economy, Ecology and Equity. The address marked a significant moment in the Union Territory’s democratic journey, coming after the formation of an elected government following several years, a transition the Lieutenant Governor described as vital for restoring public faith in democratic institutions and participatory governance .

Democracy, Governance and Digital Transformation

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that the past year has been focused on rebuilding trust through good governance, transparency and citizen-centric administration. Over 1,500 public services are now available online, with 391 services integrated with an auto-appeal system to ensure timely delivery. Grievance redressal mechanisms such as the JK Samadhan portal and regular public outreach meetings have brought governance closer to citizens, resolving thousands of complaints through time-bound interventions .

A major thrust on digital governance was reflected in the record 82 crore e-transactions during the year and seamless Direct Benefit Transfers amounting to ₹9,000 crore credited to nearly 80 lakh beneficiaries. The government is also formulating a comprehensive AI strategy to enhance efficiency in healthcare, agriculture, education, mobility and law enforcement .

Economic Momentum and Infrastructure Push

Describing Jammu and Kashmir as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, the LG noted an annual nominal growth rate of around 11 percent, steady growth in GST collections, and rising power revenues. Infrastructure emerged as a central pillar of this growth, with investments exceeding ₹61,500 crore in roads, highways, tunnels and connectivity projects. Landmark achievements include completion of key tunnels, sanctioning of new national highways, and historic rail connectivity of the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, opening new avenues for trade, tourism and logistics .

Power sector reforms have reduced losses and improved revenue realization through smart metering, hydropower projects, and large-scale solarisation under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, benefiting both government buildings and households.

Tourism, Agriculture and Rural Prosperity

Tourism continued to be a lifeline for the UT’s economy, recording 1.78 crore tourist visits in 2025. The government’s strategy to promote year-round tourism includes new destinations, pilgrim, adventure and eco-tourism, and iconic initiatives like the Chrysanthemum Garden Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood, aimed at boosting arrivals during the lean autumn season .

Agriculture and allied sectors are being revitalized through the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, crop diversification, expanded cold storage capacity, e-NAM integration, and GI tagging of traditional products. Significant gains were reported in oilseeds, honey, fisheries, dairy and livestock production, strengthening farmers’ incomes and rural livelihoods .

Healthcare, Education and Human Capital

Healthcare infrastructure has seen major upgrades with the establishment of AIIMS Jammu, expansion of medical colleges, new cancer institutes, critical care blocks and digital health initiatives like the SEHAT App and Tele-ICUs. Simultaneously, the education sector is undergoing a comprehensive transformation under the National Education Policy, with smart classrooms, Atal Tinkering Labs, ICT infrastructure, PM-SHRI schools and NAAC A++ accreditation for the Universities of Jammu and Kashmir .

Industry, Employment and Youth Empowerment

Since 2020, over 2,200 industrial units have commenced production, generating employment for nearly 74,000 people, while startups—many led by women—are gaining momentum. Mission YUVA has emerged as a flagship youth entrepreneurship initiative, aiming to create 1.35 lakh enterprises and jobs for 4.5 lakh youth, supported by skilling, credit and mentorship .

Social Welfare, Inclusion and Dignity

The address placed strong emphasis on social justice, with enhanced pensions, expanded food security, housing for the poor, land for disaster-affected families, free public transport for women, and targeted welfare for tribal communities, senior citizens and vulnerable groups. Reforms in the Forest Rights Act implementation and reservation policies were highlighted as steps toward deeper inclusion and empowerment .

A Call for Unity and Shared Responsibility

Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon all members of the House to work together with unity of purpose to transform challenges into opportunities and build a peaceful, progressive, inclusive and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir—one that ensures dignity, opportunity and hope for every citizen .