Nadeem Nadu
New Delhi, Feb 10 :
National Conference MP Mian Altaf Ahmad on Tuesday criticized the Union Budget 2026-27, saying it fails to provide a clear roadmap for employment, tourism development, and tribal welfare in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking in Parliament, During the general discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, MP Altaf said, “if there is depression in our children, if they are going towards addiction, the basic reason for all of them is unemployment. Universities are opening, but the graduates have no roadmap for employment.”
He criticized financial institutions for failing to support the unemployed, adding, “When an unemployed engineer or doctor goes to banks, there is such a big scam, such a big bribe is taken. People used to think banks will give loans on priority, but that is not happening.”
Highlighting the tourism sector, Mian Altaf said, “Tourism is a very big source of employment, but there are no good institutes for training. Infrastructure for local tourism is not being built, and Gulmarg faces unresolved issues related to leases.”
He also addressed agriculture and horticulture concerns, stating, “Until insurance cover is given, especially for horticulture, crops and livestock, the poor will continue to suffer losses during storms or natural calamities.”
On tribal welfare, the MP added, “Tribals have been mentioned a lot in this budget, but there is no programme for them. There is no planning, no monitoring of the funds allocated, and it seems only for publicity.”
MP Altaf urged the government to focus on employment generation, banking support, tourism development, and social security measures for vulnerable communities in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNC)