SRINAGAR: Lt Governor Manoj Sinha in his address to the legislators on the start of Budget session of J&K Assembly in Jammu said one of the foremost aspirations of people of J&K is restoration of statehood.
“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. My Government recognizes 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,” Sinha said in his address.
The J&K cabinet in its first meeting in October last year had passed a resolution calling for early restoration of statehood to J&K. Since then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other union ministers and handed them copies of the resolution and urging for early restoration of statehood.
In his address to legislators, LG Sinha said, “We take immense pride in our composite culture and centuries-old traditions of amity and brotherhood. My 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.”
Sinha said energy sector in Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a transformative phase, with my Government committed to ensuring the early completion of key hydropower projects, including Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle.
“These projects will collectively add 3,014 MW of capacity, significantly strengthening the region's energy security and benefiting the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, several other projects, such as Dulhasti-II and Kirthai-I, are in the pipeline, further reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir's position as a hub for renewable energy,” he said.
On return of migrant Kashmiri Pandits to Valley, Sinha said the government is committed to the dignified rehabilitation of Kashmiri Migrants back into the valley by ensuring a safe and secure environment.
“Efforts will be intensified to accelerate the construction of transit accommodation projects for migrant employees, providing them with suitable housing at designated locations. These initiatives reflect our dedication to restoring confidence, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for all communities in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
On the budget to be presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is also finance minister of J&K, on March 3, Sinha said 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.
“It symbolizes 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.