Jammu, March 7, 2025 –
The Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) and the Jammu & Kashmir Pensioners United Front (JKPUF), under the leadership of Abdul Qayoom Wani, commend the maiden budget presented by Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, recognizing it as a positive initiative despite the challenging situation and limited powers. The Rs 1.12 lakh crore budget prioritizes inclusive growth and welfare, with notable steps such as 10 kg of free ration for AAY beneficiaries, 200 units of free electricity for AAY families, free ridership for women on government transport, enhancement of the Marriage Assistance Scheme, and zero stamp duty on property transfers to blood relatives. These measures reflect a commitment to social justice, economic relief, and gender empowerment. While appreciating the government’s focus on fiscal prudence and economic expansion, JKCSF and JKPUF emphasize the need to extend the electricity rebate to the middle class, ensure the regularization of casual laborers, create more employment avenues for unemployed youth, implement the Senior Citizens Act, and address the disparity in medical allowance between J&K, Ladakh UT, and central government employees, as promised in the election manifesto. The plight of daily wagers and need-based workers remains unaddressed in this budget, and their concerns must be considered in future policies. JKCSF and JKPUF do not believe in criticism for the sake of criticism but always take a constructive approach, recognizing the scope for improvement in every policy. We urge the government to ensure transparent and accountable implementation of the budget provisions while addressing the concerns of all sections of society to achieve a truly equitable and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.