Omar presents Rs 1.12 lakh cr budget for 2025-26, Rs 6418 cr less from current FY

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Welfare measures for AAY families, free ride for women, pension up; petrol, diesel prices to rise

* Centre approves spl assistance for J&K; CM thanks PM, HM, FM

* Mission Yuva to create 1.37 lakh enterprises, 4.25 lakh jobs

* Govt introduces new levies on vehicles purchased outside UT

* Law, Skill Universities proposed, new hydropower policy to come up

* Green Mission, Own Source Revenue policy for rural areas

Sanjeev Pargal

JAMMU, Mar 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who holds charge of the Finance Department, today presented his maiden budget in the Legislative Assembly worth Rs 1,12,310 crore for the financial year of 2025-26, down by Rs 6418 from current fiscal year of 2024-25, proposing a series of welfare measures including NC’s one of the most popular election commitment of 200 free electricity units per month but confined the scheme to Antyodaya families and also linked it with PM Suryaghar Bijli Yojana.

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Omar announced welfare measures including free ration of 10 kg per person to all AAY beneficiaries from April 1, enhancement of pension in different categories that will benefit 10,07,324 individuals, free ride for women on Government-owned transport including e-buses and increase in marriage assistance for AAY girls from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000.

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He also announced opening of 11 new Shakti Sadans for women in distress and reduced to zero the stamp duty on property gifted to blood relations.
He also announced launch of Mission Yuva in next fiscal year with an aim to create 1,37,000 enterprises and 4.25 lakh jobs over next 5 years making J&K a hub for entrepreneurship and employment.
He projected the region’s economy to grow at 7.5 per cent in 2024-25, with an estimated Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth of 9.5 per cent in 2025-26.
However, the Chief Minister proposed to reduce rebate on petrol by Rs one per liter and on High Density Diesel by Rs 2 per liter. He proposed increase in tax rate on aviation turbine fuel by 5 percent. This will lead to increase in petrol prices by Rs one per liter and diesel by Rs two per liter. He said the prices of fossil fuels are lower in Jammu and Kashmir than neighbouring States like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi.
In a major announcement, Abdullah introduced new levies on non-transport vehicles purchased outside J&K but registered within the region through authorized dealerships. “These vehicles will now be subject to a 12 per cent road and token tax, along with a 3 per cent green cess on top of existing charges,” he said, adding the measure aims to mitigate revenue losses and provide a level-playing field for local automobile dealers.
Proposing 200 units of free electricity per month to all Antyodaya families in J&K, Omar said integrated with the PM Suryaghar Bijli Yojana, the initiative will enable the installation of grid-connected solar systems, generating the required power and eliminating electricity bills. With an investment of Rs 750 crore spread over five years, the step will also reduce AT&C losses and promote sustainable energy, he asserted.
“From April 1, 2025, all women in Jammu and Kashmir will be granted free ridership on Government-owned public transports including e-buses. The initiative will ease financial burdens, enhance access to education and employment and ensure safer and more affordable travel,” the CM said.
He proposed en enhancement of financial assistance under the Marriage Assistance Scheme for the AAY category girls from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000. This, he said, will provide greater financial relief to the underprivileged families. He also announced support to 40,000 women under `Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme in launching micro-Startups, ensuring sustainable annual income of Rs one lakh.
Omar Abdullah proposed an enhancement in pension amounts for old-aged persons, widows, divorcees and speciallyabled persons, benefitting 10,07,324 individuals across Jammu and Kashmir. He proposed Rs 1250 per month for persons below 60 years of age, Rs 1500 per months for those aged between 60 and 80 and Rs 2000 per month for the individuals 80 and above. Existing pension amount at present is Rs 1000 per month. The enhancement in all categories will increase total pension outlay from Rs 1209 crore to Rs 1755 crore per annum.
He proposed free ration of 10 kg per person to all AAY beneficiaries from April 1, 2025, ensuring enhanced nutritional support for most vulnerable. He said the Government will also assess and upgrade fair price shops for efficient and inclusive food security system.
In yet another welfare measure, Omar proposed a reform in the stamp duty structure for gift transactions among blood relatives.“Currently, the stamp duty for such transactions varies from 3 percent to 7 percent which discourages formal registration. To address the issue, I propose reducing stamp duty on property gifted to blood relatives to zero, which will benefit families by encouraging legal documentation and reducing inheritance disputes. This will provide financial relief, ensure transparency and streamline property transfers,” he said.
He announced 11 new Shakti Sadans for women in distress including victims of trafficking which will be set up in Anantnag, Bandipora, Budgam, Doda, Jammu, Kathua, Pulwama, Reasi, Ramban, Poonch and Srinagar districts, adding to the existing centres in Jammu and Kupwara. These facilities will provide shelter, care and rehabilitation services to help women reintegrate into society, he said.
Terming the budget as a roadmap for economic growth and a true reflection of people’s aspirations, Omar proposed total budget for the next financial year of 2025-26 at Rs 1,12,310 crore excluding the provision for Ways and Means advances and Overdraft. The budget includes Rs 97982 crore worth revenue receipts and Rs 14328 crore capital receipts. The revenue expenditure is estimated to be Rs 79703 crore and capital expenditure at Rs 32607 crore.
He pegged fiscal deficit of Jammu and Kashmir at 8596 crore. Capital expenditure contribution towards GDP was put at 11.31 percent and expected growth in GSDP at 11.31 percent.
Current financial year’s budget (2024-25) was to the tune of Rs 1,18,728 crore and that of previous year i.e. 2023-24, it was 1,18,500 crore. Next year’s budget has gone down by Rs 6418 crore as compared to the current financial year.
Omar thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for their support in various sectors.
“This year, we actively engaged with the Central Government, resulting in the formation of an expert committee to resolve fiscal issues. I met with the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi, Home Minister (Amit Shah), and Finance Minister (Nirmala Sitharaman) on multiple occasions. I am pleased to share that our efforts have paid off — the Central Government has approved special assistance for J&K and will support fiscal reforms to enhance revenue and expenditure management,” Omar said.
He said the improved environment is contributing to economic progress, with J&K’s economy expanding from Rs 1,64,103 crore in 2019-20 to Rs 2,45,022 crore in 2023-24.
“In 2024-25, the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors are projected to contribute 20 per cent, 18.30 per cent, and 61.70 per cent to GSVA (Gross State Value Added), respectively. It is a testament to the strong foundations laid by the leadership of J&K that despite its geographical challenges and the multi-decade turmoil, the socio-economic indicators continue to remain robust,” he said.
He said J&K is at the threshold of a new era of peace and prosperity, with a semblance of normalcy returning after over three-and-a-half decades of turmoil.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that J&K will emerge as a leading region in development, playing a vital role in the vision of a developed India by 2047.
“Jammu & Kashmir continues to face significant infrastructure deficits in areas like road connectivity, water supply, sewerage, tourism, and power. Addressing these challenges requires substantial financial resources and continued support from the central Government.
Detailing the estimates, he said gross receipts are estimated at Rs 1,40,309.99 crore, including provisions for an overdraft of Rs 28,000 crore.
“Given these receipts, total gross expenditure is estimated to be Rs 1,40,309.99 crore,” he added.
Omar highlighted that the Union Territory’s own revenues, both tax and non-tax, are estimated at Rs 31,905 crore.
“Additionally, Rs 41,000 crore is expected as central assistance and Rs 13,522 crore as CSS and PMDP for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
Revealing fiscal indicators, he projected the tax-GDP ratio at 7.5 per cent for 2025-26.
The budget has estimated the fiscal deficit for 2025-26 it to be at 3.0 per cent of the Union Territory’s GDP.
“This is substantially lower than the 5.5 per cent in 2024-25 (RE),” he added.
The GDP for 2025-26 is projected at Rs 2,884,22 crore, reflecting a growth of 9.5 per cent over the previous year, he added.
The Chief Minister said the budget for J&K Police, which was around 11 per cent of total allocation, has been migrated to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ budget from 2024-25 onward.
“In addition to this, J&K will receive an extra Rs 5,000 crore in grants for 2024-25 and 2025-26. I sincerely thank the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Finance Minister for their unwavering support in strengthening J&K’s fiscal health and realizing its vision for growth and prosperity,” he said.
He further said this budget is more than just a financial statement, it is a roadmap for a new and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the aspirations of its people and laying a strong foundation for economic growth, social progress, and sustainable development.
“As we navigate challenges and embrace new opportunities, I seek the unwavering support and active collaboration of every member of this House. Together, transcending political differences, we must unite to fulfil our shared commitment to building a stronger, self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir, working for the greater good of our people,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the journey of Jammu and Kashmir has been one of resilience and determination.
“Our Government is committed to transforming J&K into a modern, progressive, and economically vibrant region. Our Government endeavours to frame a roadmap to reclaim the prudence, sagacity and self-confidence which have been the cornerstones of our identity for generations,” he said.
Omar said “Our challenges are vast, and our limitations are many. But we must collectively pledge to confront those challenges head-on, with unwavering resolve. I have endeavored to prepare this maiden budget as a true reflection of the dreams of our people, the needs of our future generations, and the aspirations of every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir.” Expressing gratitude to people for their enthusiastic participation in Assembly elections, he said the unprecedented voter turnout is a clear testament to their unwavering resolve to move beyond the shadows of past turmoil and actively contribute to the journey of development and progress.
“By granting us a strong mandate, they have entrusted us with the responsibility to serve them. I assure them that we will serve them with sincerity and fulfil their aspirations for a prosperous and thriving J&K,” he said.
The restoration of full Statehood is a deeply cherished aspiration of the people of J&K, he said, adding that his Government remains resolute in working towards its fulfillment.
He also assured of strengthening democracy at grassroots by empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies, which play a crucial role in local governance and development.
“Our Government is committed to holding elections to these bodies, reinforcing our commitment to accountable, inclusive, and decentralized governance for the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
The budget emphasizes inclusive growth, fiscal prudence, and strategic investments in infrastructure, agriculture, industry, healthcare, education, and digital governance, Omar said.
“We are focused on bridging regional disparities, empowering youth and women, and fostering a business-friendly environment to attract investment and innovation,” he added.
He said he has endeavored to prepare this maiden budget as a “true reflection of the dreams of our people, the needs of our future generations and the aspirations of every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir”.
He announced a series of economic and tax reforms aimed at bolstering revenue generation, infrastructure development and social security while underscoring the need for fiscal prudence.
He highlighted the Government’s commitment to reduce fiscal deficit through strategic policy measures and Central assistance.
“Because of our fiscal reforms and central support, the fiscal deficit will be reduced, bringing us closer to our Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) target,” Omar said.
He acknowledged J-K’s financial constraints, attributing them to high committed expenditures and limited revenue streams. He revealed that only 30 per cent of revenue receipts and 25 per cent of budgetary needs are covered by J-K’s tax and non-tax revenues.
“Our historical challenges of high expenditure and low revenue generation have led to fiscal stress. However, through improved tax compliance, digital tracking and prudent fiscal management, we are ensuring revenue mobilization,” the CM said.
He added that the Government has intensified efforts to improve tax realization, especially through Goods and Services Tax (GST) compliance. He assured that GST tracking for capital works and risk-based e-way bill verifications would be strengthened to curb tax evasion.
“Red-flagged cases will be closely monitored using inputs from the Business Intelligence Unit (BIU) and GST Network (GSTN) to prevent revenue leakages,” he said.
The Government’s focus on digital reforms has yielded positive results, with non-tax revenue reaching Rs 5,824 crore as of January 31, while tax revenue has climbed to Rs 11,650 crore – both figures exceeding last year’s collections.
“We are improving billing, metering and digitization to enhance revenue collection. Our reforms in metering and power billing have led to a reduction in under-recovery from Rs 6,552 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 5,244 crore in 2023-24, with a further target of Rs 4,200 crore in 2024-25,” Omar said.
Despite these efforts, he acknowledged that J-K’s debt burden has risen due to borrowing for power purchases. The public debt has increased from 48 per cent of GSDP in FY 2015-16 to 52 per cent in 2023-24.
“To address this, we are reducing high-cost debt and optimizing liabilities for long-term fiscal stability,” he said.
Omar reiterated the need to tackle J-K’s infrastructure deficit, particularly in road connectivity, water supply, tourism and power.
He said the Government is also focused on improving fiscal transparency by making all developmental expenditures publicly accessible through the Empowerment and Jan-Bhagidhari portal. Independent officers will verify projects to ensure timely completion and quality execution.
With an aim to unlock Jammu & Kashmir’s industrial potential, Omar announced a significant step towards establishing a leather tanning industry.
“Currently, around 5,000-6,000 pelts produced daily in Kashmir go to waste due to the absence of processing facilities. To harness this opportunity, the Government will formulate a policy to promote leather tanning industries, ensuring value addition. Processing these skins into leather will contribute an additional Rs 100 crore to J&K’s economy,” he said.
Emphasizing the importance of a resilient rural economy, Omar announced the launch of the “J&K Green Mission” in 2025.
“We will unite communities to make villages clean and green through waste segregation, proper disposal, and vermi composting,” he said.
To ensure sustainability, the Government will implement the Own Source Revenue (OSR) policy to make every village Panchayat self-sufficient in the next five years.
Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin, 3.40 lakh houses have been sanctioned, with 50,000 more to be built in 2025-26, he said.
Buoyed by the tourism sector’s record-breaking show in 2024, with 2.36 crore tourist footfalls, Omar announced a strategic expansion plan under the SPREAD (Sustainable Promotion of Emerging Alternate Destinations) initiative.
“This initiative will help develop world-class alternative destinations across J&K, reducing pressure on heavily visited locations. With the Government of India’s support, we are already in the planning phase,” he said.
He announced an eco-tourism policy that will ensure sustainable tourism while tackling waste management challenges, particularly plastic waste at tourist sites.
A multi-stakeholder advisory committee to address issues in the tourism and hospitality sector will be set up too, he said, adding that Gulmarg Gondola attracted 7.68 lakh visitors in 2024, and the Kashmir Marathon saw 1,800 global participants.
“Tourism’s contribution to GSDP will be increased from 7 per cent to 15 per cent in the next 4-5 years,” he added.
In order to bolster J&K’s startup ecosystem, the Government has also allocated Rs 50 crore for providing financial aid, mentorship and incubation for entrepreneurs.
“This will foster innovation, empower startups, and position Jammu and Kashmir as a dynamic hub for entrepreneurship,” Omar said.
For MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises), he announced a new policy to provide price preference to local small businesses in public procurement, addressing concerns regarding Central Government’s online marketplace GeM.
To combat illegal mining, he said that a Mining Surveillance System using satellite imagery will be implemented in collaboration with BISAG. Additionally, handheld e-challan devices will be introduced for enforcement, he said.
Abdullah also unveiled SEHAT App, saying this is set to revolutionize healthcare in J&K.
“This app will offer teleconsultation services, online doctor appointments in government hospitals, and a digital health records system integrated with AB-PMJAY-SEHAT insurance,” he said.
The Chief Minister also added that the app will include AI-powered diagnostics, e-prescriptions, medicine delivery, and emergency health support. “Ambulance services and real-time updates on preventive care, vaccinations, and wellness programs will also be provided.”
On the education sector, he said that the Government will upgrade 40 higher secondary schools — one boys’ and one girls’ school per district — into integrated K-12 institutions.
“We are committed to transforming J&K into an educational hub by fully implementing NEP 2020 and launching four-year undergraduate programmes in all colleges,” Omar said.
He also announced 600 additional seats in Polytechnic Colleges.
The Government will encourage private universities to set up satellite campuses in J&K, he added.
The Government has plans to establish the Jammu & Kashmir Skill and Entrepreneurship University (J&K SEU), he said.
“This University will offer cutting-edge training in technology, healthcare, tourism, renewable energy, and traditional crafts while fostering innovation and industry partnerships,” Omar said.
Omar announced the setting up of National Law University also.
“The Government is committed to establishing a National Law University (NLU) in Jammu & Kashmir to drive legal education reforms and research,” he said.
“With world-class training aligned to contemporary standards, the NLU will empower future legal professionals and enhance justice delivery,” he added.
He said the Government will introduce a new hydropower policy to tap its full potential of 20,000 MW and attract private investment.
He said the Government is also reforming metering, billing, and collection to strengthen the power sector in the Union Territory.
“To unlock J&K’s full hydropower potential, my Government will introduce a new hydropower policy to accelerate development, attract private investment, and drive sustainable energy growth,” Omar said.
The Chief Minister proposed an allocation of about Rs 2,021.37 crore for the power sector in 2025-26 against Rs 762.80 crore 2024-25.
The power sector is a top priority for his Government, as it is the backbone of a thriving economy, he said.
“Our vision is two-fold: first, to make J&K an energy hub, achieving self-sufficiency and becoming a net power exporter by harnessing its vast hydro potential; and second, to ensure 24/7 reliable and affordable electricity for all households by 2027-28. To achieve this, we are implementing a well-coordinated plan, covering all key aspects of the power supply chain,” he said.
J&K has a hydro potential of 20,000 MW, but only 3,400 MW has been harnessed, he noted.
To fast-track development, Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle will add over 3,000 MW by 2027, while new projects like Kirthai-I, Dulhasti-II, Bursar, Sawalkote, Uri-I Stage-II, Ujh, and Kirthai-II will add 4,500 MW within a decade, ensuring energy self-sufficiency and making J&K a power exporter, the Chief Minister said.
Under-recovery has dropped from Rs 6,552 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 5,244 crore in 2023-24, with a target of Rs 4,200 crore in 2024-25, he said, adding that expanding the consumer base, smart meters, online billing, and aerial bunched cables are driving this turnaround.
He said high AT&C losses resulted in huge outstanding liabilities for power purchase, for which Rs 28,000 crore were borrowed in the last few years, raising public debt from 48 per cent of GSDP in FY 2015-16 to 52 per cent in 2023-24.
“To mitigate this, we are reducing high-cost debt, optimizing liabilities, and calibrating the repayment schedules for long-term fiscal stability,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the Centre has sanctioned Rs 5,620 crore under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to enhance the power distribution infrastructure and ensure a reliable, efficient, and financially sustainable power supply.
Under this scheme, J&K has submitted an ambitious investment plan of Rs 12,922 crore, focusing on smart metering, loss reduction, and modernization of the distribution network in rural and urban areas, he noted.
Omar said the Phase-I of the scheme is currently under execution and over 40 per cent progress has already been made in loss reduction works, and the projects are on track for completion by 2026, with more than 40,000 smart meters installed so far.
Emphasis has been placed on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of Jammu and Srinagar by converting overhead electrical networks into underground cabling along major roads, he added.
The Government is also promoting rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, while polarization of 22,494 Government buildings with a total capacity of 314 MW is set to be completed by December this year, the Chief Minister said.
Highlighting a key challenge, he said there is a gap between the cost of power supply and revenue collection.
“While the average cost per unit is Rs 7, we recover only Rs 2.5 due to systemic inefficiencies, high losses, and low tariffs. To bridge this gap, our Government is implementing 100 per cent smart metering, strengthening billing and collection mechanisms, and modernizing the entire distribution network,” Omar said.
“We will also prioritise capacity building and enhanced insurance coverage to ensure their safety and well-being as they perform critical power sector duties,” Omar said.
Additionally, he said a fully equipped Power Training Institute will be established to provide continuous skill development and professional growth.
On infrastructure and government housing, he said a new legislative complex in Jammu has been allocated Rs 50 crore (Rs 208 crore total project cost). Additionally, 4,500 Government residential units in Jammu and Srinagar will be constructed, with new projects for 300 more units.
“Twin towers with 64 modern 3BHK & 4BHK flats at Canal Road, Jammu (Rs 20 crore allocation) will be constructed too,” he said.
“This budget is a step towards a self-reliant, prosperous, and equitable Jammu & Kashmir,” Omar said.
With major investments in industry, tourism, education, and infrastructure, the budget lays the foundation for economic growth, sustainability, and social welfare, he added.
The Chief Minister proposed an allocation of Rs 50 crore this year to support financial aid, mentorship and incubation for emerging entrepreneurs. This, he said, will foster innovation, empower Startups and position Jammu and Kashmir as a dynamic hub for entrepreneurship.
He said 30-bedded Emergency Medicine Departments will be established in all Government Medical Colleges.
Omar said pilgrim facilities will be enhanced for Shri Amarnath yatra to ensure efficient conduct of sacred journey.
Presenting supplementary grants for 2024-25, Omar said an amount of Rs 6242.34 crore shall be withdrawn in excess of grant.

Highlights

  • Budget for 2025-26 worth Rs 1,12,310 crore
  • J&K’s economy expands from Rs 1,64,103 cr in 2019-20 to Rs 2,45,022 cr in 2023-24
  • Rs 5000 cr to strengthen power infrastructure
  • UT’s own revenue estimated at Rs 31,905 cr
  • Central Govt approves Spl assistance for J&K
  • Marriage Assistance for AAY category girls up from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000
  • Petrol prices to be up by Re 1, diesel by Rs 2
  • 46 new Industrial Estates to be developed with Rs 310 cr, existing Estates to be upgraded
  • 11 new Shakti Sadans for women in distress
  • Pension in all categories increased
  • PoJK Bhawan to be set up at Suketar with an amount of Rs 9.95 cr
  • Rs 15 cr for promotion of film production in J&K
  • 200 units free electricity for AAY category people linked to PM Surya Ghar Yojana
  • Free ration of 10 kg per person for all AAY beneficiaries
  • No stamp duty for gift transactions among blood relatives.
  • Free ride for women in Govt-owned public transport including e-buses
  • 12 pc road, token tax, 3 pc cess on non-transport vehicles purchased outside J&K
  • Two new Universities (National Law and Skill & Entrepreneurship) proposed
  • Grid connectivity to be restored to Shri Amarnath shrine for uninterrupted power through underground cabling
  • Rs 80 cr for up gradation, improvement of infrastructure for Shri Amarnath Ji pilgrimage
  • Rs 700 crore for completion of 6000 transit accommodation under PMDP.
  • Additional 200 e-buses to be introduced
  • 5 lakh smart pre-paid meters to be installed during next financial year
  • Rs 50 cr for development of new destinations
  • Fiscal deficit pegged at Rs 8596 cr
  • Govt says committed to hold elections to Panchayats, ULBs
  • Leather tanning industry to be set up
  • J&K Green Mission to be launched in 2025.
  • OSR Policy to make every Panchayat self-sufficient
  • Expansion plan under SPREAD for tourism sector
  • Eco-tourism Policy for sustainable tourism
  • Multi-stakeholder advisory committee to be set up in tourism & hospitality sector
  • Mining Surveillance System to be established
  • Polytechnic Colleges to have 600 additional seats.
  • 20 new Weather Stations to be set up
  • Seed Capital Challenge Funds up to Rs 5 lakh per Startup. Capital up to Rs 50 lakh per Startup
  • 2000 Kisan Khidmat Ghars to be established
  • Rs 2400 cr provisioned for new Medical Colleges
  • MRI and PET Scanning to be available in all GMCs in next 3 years.
  • AIIMS Kashmir to become functional by 2025-26
  • Intake capacity of MBBS seats to be increased
  • Field staff to get CM’s awards for exemplary work in reducing ATC losses in power
  • Power Training Institute to be established
  • 49 assets of Tourism to be revived with Rs 20 cr cost
  • Comprehensive Master Plans for Sonamarg, Patnitop, Pahalgam, Gulmarg (Phase 2) and Surinsar-Mansar.
  • 5000 Kindergartens to be set up with child-friendly infrastructure at the cost of Rs 30 cr
  • Old Age Home to be set up with Rs 67 cr funds
  • 30 new Tehsil offices, 50 Niabat offices to be constructed
  • Construction of ACB Police Stations for Rs 25 cr
  • Digital Village Centre to be set up

Sidelights

  • Chief Minister Omar Abdullah while presenting his maiden budget in the Legislative Assembly today was dressed in traditional khan suit with a blue blazer and a skull cap.
  • Omar started his 97 minutes speech in English, with the Persian couplet, “Tan Hama Daag Daag Shud – Punmba Kuja Kuja Neham…” (my entire body is covered with bruises where should I apply the balm).
  • He concluded the speech with Jai Hind!
  • He read the budget speech from tablet and not the booklet
  • “A little more than 7 years ago, tongue firmly in cheek, I was imitating the ritual of Finance Ministers holding up their briefcases as they enter Assemblies & Parliament to deliver the budget. Never in a million years did I ever imagine I’d be doing this for real,” he posted, sharing a picture of himself carrying a briefcase as he walked with the late BJP stalwart Devender Singh Rana.
  • “With great humility and a profound sense of duty, I stand before you today to present my first budget as Finance Minister — marking the first budget of an elected Government in seven years,” the Chief Minister said in the Assembly.
  • Omar later said he was facing difficulty in speaking after the budget speach that lasted nearly 100 minutes.
  • Omar presented the first budget of Jammu and Kashmir in last 7 years. This was also the first budget of the National Conference Government after it came to power in October last year.
  • Dr Haseeb Drabu presented PDP-BJP Government’s budget in the Assembly on January 11, 2018. The Government collapsed in June leading to imposition of the Central rule followed by August 5, 2019 developments.
  • Omar started his budget speech at the stroke of 11 am. His speech lasted 100 minutes and wasn’t interrupted by the Opposition even once. The Opposition members patiently listened to the speech and gave their reactions outside after the speech was over.
  • The Chief Minister entered the House about five minutes short of 11 AM.
  • Before reaching the Assembly with budget documents, he posed with the officers and officials of the Finance Department.
  • The treasury benches welcomed the welfare measures announced by the Chief Minister with thumping of desks.

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