Srinagar,Nov 4,
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the inaugural session of Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Monday touching multiple subjects and assured all roung progress. He talked about the restoration of statehood, steps taken or will be taken in the development and progress of tourism sector, agriculture, sports and health sector.
Here are some key highlights of LG Manoj Sinha’s speech.
STATEHOOD
The aspiration for a return to the Statehood remains strong. The Prime Minister, on several occasions, has already expressed his commitment to restoring statehood, which has been a source of rekindled hope and reassurance for the people. The Council of Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir has recently passed a unanimous resolution calling for the immediate restoration of statehood. This resolution reflects the collective will of the elected representatives, echoing the aspirations of the people for the reinstatement of full democratic governance. My Government will make all efforts for restoration of full Statehood and Constitutional Guarantees available to the State. It would be a befitting reciprocation of the faith reposed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir in our democratic institutions. In the meantime, I urge all stakeholders to work together as one team and extend full support to my government in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people.
CONNECTIVITY
Implementation of major ongoing connectivity projects will be fast tracked by facilitating the acquisition of land, forest clearances and removal of encroachments. On-going Expressway, National Highways and Ring Road projects for Jammu and Srinagar cities will be speeded up for their early completion. Work on the upgradation and consolidation of the Jammu Akhnoor Rajouri – Poonch National Highway will be expedited for its early completion. New National Highways projects will be taken up with the Central Government to improve connectivity to remote and backward pockets to accelerate economic growth. Connectivity of Rail to the valley, which will be a reality soon, will be a turning point for economic development and prosperity. Night landing facilities at Jammu and Srinagar airports will further enhance connectivity and boost the tourism sector further. My government will take all necessary measures to ensure that the development dividend of these initiatives reaches the remotest pockets and uplifts their lives and livelihoods. My Government will pursue implementation of projects for rail connectivity to important unconnected areas including
the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, with the Government of India.
ELECTRICITY
My Government is committed to provide 200 units of free electricity to deserving households for which modalities are being worked out. J&K is endowed with abundance of water resources that are yet to be harnessed fully. My Government is committed to harnessing their full potential so that their economic dividend enhances people’s lives and J&K’s financial position. My government will seek the support of the Government of India for a significant leap forward in our energy sector. Completion of four Mega Hydro Electric Power projects, with sanctioned capacity of 3014 MWs, will be expedited for doubling the hydro power generation capacity by 2026 to not only make J&K selfsufficient in power but also to enable us to generate revenue from this vital green resource. Another four Mega Hydro Electric Power projects of 1818 MWs will be followed rigorously to get the work on these power-generating projects started.
JOB CREATION
The Rangarajan Committee Report, crafted under the guidance of former RBI Governor Dr. C. Rangarajan in 2011, recommended a roadmap for creating jobs and enhancing economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir. My government will pursue the implementation of the Report with the Government of India to address structural issues in the economy, support skill-building initiatives, and stimulate inclusive growth. Effective collaboration with the Government of India would be essential to mobilize resources, funding, and requisite support necessary for realizing many of these reforms.
All the vacancies in the Government Sector will be identified and filled up on fast-track basis. My Government is committed to expedite the process of compassionate appointments as well.
TOURISM
Tourism sector is a major pillar of the economy of J&K, which can boost various services and industrial sectors like transport, hospitality, horticulture and small-scale industry thereby, generating incomes and job opportunities for the local population.
My government will ensure that all benefits are extended to the Tourism Sector, as an “Industry”. This will ensure that this sector witnesses requisite growth in investment for improving tourism infrastructure and services. My Government will focus on enhancing the quality of tourist experience, and devise appropriate interventions to manage the tourist inflow. Concerted efforts will be made for accelerated development of new tourist destinations both in Kashmir as well as Jammu, so that the immense untapped potential of our beautiful landscape is harnessed for improving the experience of the tourists and lives and livelihoods of the locals. Work on Tawi Barrage Project, an artificial lake, is also in full swing and likely to be completed soon, which will enhance tourism potential of Jammu City. The upcoming railway connectivity to Kashmir, expected to be fully operational soon, will indeed provide a significant boost to tourism in both Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region.
INDUSTRY
J&K Industrial Policy, 2021-30, has been notified for encouraging private investment and to boost the industrial sector. New Central Sector package of Rs 28,400 crores is also available for encouraging new investments. My Government will ensure that requisite infrastructure for the development of industrial units is made available on priority, subsidized industrial land is transparently allotted and it actually translates in attracting new investment, creating employment opportunities for the locals, develop backward regions and expand existing industrial units. The Council of Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir has recently passed a unanimous resolution for reviewing the J&K Industrial Policy, 2021-30, to achieve this objective.
My Government will develop 46 new industrial estates with all the modern facilities to attract industries and enhance job opportunities. These new initiatives will spur employment avenues and enhance economic growth. Further, focus will also be on development of industrial parks or clusters to provide shared facilities and resources, making it easier for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to thrive. A suitable procurement policy to further support the MSMEs will also be introduced. Reform process will be further strengthened for ease of doing business. My Government will promote Circular Economy by encouraging industries to adopt sustainable practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and waste. Agrobased industries will be developed to utilize local resources sustainably.
Handloom and Handicraft sector will be given impetus, including through e-commerce platforms, to increase the production and exports. G.I tagging of Crafts will be promoted to provide them markets at world level. My Government will continue supporting local artisans by providing them with better access to markets and credit to promote traditional crafts besides facilitating marketing of local products through trade fairs, exhibitions, and online platforms. Srinagar was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2021. This recognition acknowledges Srinagar’s rich heritage and excellence in crafts, particularly its world-renowned Kashmiri handicrafts. As part of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network, Srinagar joined a select group of cities worldwide recognized for fostering innovation and creativity as strategic factors for sustainable urban development.
HEALTH
My Government is committed to providing state-of-the-art healthcare facilities to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir. Healthcare facilities and services in rural areas, focusing on maternal and child health, will be further improved. Critical care blocks will be established in districts for strengthening of emergency services.
The health care sector in Jammu and Kashmir is set to undergo significant advancements as the government prioritizes the expansion of medical education and health services. This initiative aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare for the people of the region. My Government will focus on increasing MBBS, PG and Nursing seats and will add new tertiary care services and advanced courses for strengthening the health care facilities at tertiary level. It is committed to enhancing the healthcare landscape in Jammu and Kashmir by focusing on two crucial aspects: attracting the best medical professionals to newly established institutions and addressing the challenge of brain drain from the region. This approach aims to build a sustainable and high-quality healthcare system that meets the needs of the population.
My Government will focus on strengthening Primary Health Care services for making available medical treatment and drugs at the grass root level. Preventive diagnosis/ screening will be carried forward for timely diagnosis of the non-communicable diseases and their treatment. Universal health coverage will be carried forward with better services for the benefit of common masses. My government will create a Chief Ministers Medical Trust for providing financial assistance to the needy for terminal diseases like cancer, heart and kidney transplants. Facilities for dialysis will be created at SubDivisional level to meet the rising need for it in recent times.
DRUG MENACE
The drug menace in J&K represents a complex challenge intertwined with socio-economic factors and historical context. Drug abuse in J&K has risen over the past decade, particularly affecting the youth. While efforts have been made to combat this issue through law enforcement and rehabilitation initiatives, the problem continues to remain a challenge. The overarching goal is to not only reduce drug dependency in J&K but also to create a robust system that addresses the root causes of drug abuse and fosters a supportive environment for rehabilitation and reintegration. By integrating law enforcement with community-based prevention and mental health services, my government is committed to building a healthier, drug-free future for its citizens by leading a “War Against Drug Abuse”.
EDUCATION
My Government is aiming to transform J&K into an educational hub focusing on attracting investment and employment opportunities. The establishment of IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu marks a significant milestone in the advancement of higher education in Jammu and Kashmir. These premier institutions are set to play a transformative role in nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in the region. Additionally, the upcoming operationalization of the Srinagar campus of IIM Jammu from its dedicated building will further enhance access to quality management education in the region. Infrastructure of colleges and universities will be strengthened besides providing adequate manpower. Research facilities for faculty and students will be focused as part of National Education Policy 2020. Innovation/ Incubation and Entrepreneurship will be encouraged inculcating start-up culture among the students.
My Government recognizes the importance of digital learning tools, such as smart classrooms, to support a modern, student- centric educational environment. It will implement innovative initiatives of National Education Policy 2020 aimed to create a learner-centric, inclusive, and future-ready education system to ignite the young minds with creative potential for their holistic development and selfrealization. This will equip the students with the necessary competencies to thrive in the rapidly changing global landscape.
Basic infrastructure in the schools will be further strengthened and management of the schools will be strengthened through cluster management. Evidence-based approaches to learning will be encouraged for enhancement of learning outcomes at all levels. Policies and programs specifically aimed at ensuring access to quality education for girls, differently abled children, and other marginalized communities will be devised.
Vocational Labs will be established in all High/ Hr. Sec. Schools. Atal Tinkering Labs/ ICT Labs/ Innovation Labs/ Smart Classrooms initiatives will be further promoted for developing skills of the students. Student health will be given priority and regular health check-ups will be carried out to address nutritional and health concerns. SPORTS
My Government will strive to create world class sports infrastructure to promote sports activities and to tap the constructive and creative energy of the Youth in sports optimally. Holistic development of Youth will be focused on to prevent youth from falling prey to anti-social activities and drug menace.
My Government will provide opportunities, facilities and counselling to increase the women’s participation in games. Women athletes have secured medals and appreciation at National and International level in the field of Football, martial art, etc which will be promoted further. My Government will lay emphasis on organizing national and international sports events to showcase the talent of youth of Jammu and Kashmir and highlight the region’s potential at national and international forums.
AGRICULTURE
Agriculture and Allied sectors constitute the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, engaging half of its workforce. J&K has 13 lakh farmer families, with substantial percentage belonging to economically weaker and marginal sections.
My Government is committed to promote farmer’s welfare and enhance their income through transformative initiatives that promote a sustainable, organic, regenerative and holistic practice for profitable agricultural economy. Implementation of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), featuring 29 comprehensive projects spanning agriculture, horticulture, and livestock, will be accelerated, modernization and innovation will be brought in, deep value chains will be developed, competitive advantages will be harnessed, and climate resilient and sustainable agriculture will be promoted. These initiatives will result in increased seed replacement rate, creation of adequate CA storage, doubling of silkworm seed production, cash crops diversification, saffron, medicinal and aromatic plant cultivation, self-reliance in vegetables, oilseed production, creation of FPOs, increase in honey, milk, mutton, poultry, mushroom, fodder and millet and nutri cereals production. Further, clusters will be developed for milk, vegetables, meat, basmati, walnut, cherries and
trout, etc. Through this program, my government will create about 3 lakhs jobs and 19,000 additional enterprises.
Spurious seeds, fertilizers and pesticides are a menace threatening both our agriculture and horticulture, as well as our ecology. Apart from upgrading and expanding the testing infrastructure, the available testing infrastructure will be fully utilized to ensure that quality agrichemicals only are used as inputs, and strict legal action will be taken against the peddlers of these spurious inputs. My Government will also promote modern farming techniques such as precision agriculture, drone technology, and data analytics to enhance crop management. Advanced irrigation systems, including drip and sprinkle irrigation, alongside micro-irrigation technologies will be promoted to optimize water usage. High-yielding and disease- resistant seed varieties coupled with organic farming practices will be promoted to improve soil health and minimize chemical use. High-density plantations will be supported, along with the development of cold storage facilities and transportation networks to minimize post-harvest losses.
Additionally, my government will enhance access to affordable agricultural credit with a fully online end-to-end credit package.
Comprehensive crop insurance schemes for both agricultural and horticultural crops will be taken forward to safeguard farmers against climate-induced risks and other unforeseen challenges, providing
them financial security during adverse conditions. To further support farmers, the government is establishing a network of 2,000 Kisan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs) across Jammu and Kashmir, which will offer a single-window system for all agricultural services at the community level.
My Government will establish one Primary Agricultural Credit Society (PACS) in each Panchayat so that it operates inclusively and supports local economy. Artisans and weavers will be covered under credit card scheme with an attractive interest subvention of 7% for a period of 5 years.
Efforts will be made to further enhance the irrigation facilities for Agriculture and Horticulture. My Government will propose new projects under PMKSY Har Khet Ko Paani. Substantial irrigation potential will be created. Work on Shahpur Kandi Dam Project is in full swing, and J&K is expected to get 1,150 cusecs of water from the Ravi River. This initiative will be followed rigorously so that farmers get benefitted. URBANIZATION
Urbanization is a very powerful engine of economic growth and social progress. Comprehensive urban planning framework that incorporates sustainability, cultural heritage and environmental considerations will be developed by my government to harness the full potential of this powerful force. Urban local bodies will be further empowered to take decisions that reflect community needs and priorities. My Government will strive to develop and enhance basic urban infrastructure with focus on strengthening governance at grassroots closest to the citizens, making them instrumental in planning and delivering various services which the people in urban areas aspire for.
Better service delivery and timely disposal of 40 online Urban Services will be ensured and these will be integrated with Single Window Portal. All efforts will be made to further improve quality and number of services. Intelligent Traffic Management System will be strengthened. Sustainable and ecofriendly public transport systems, including electric and water transport will be promoted. Solid and Liquid Waste Management System will be strengthened to make UT environment friendly and pollution free. Affordable Housing will be made available to the deserving sections of the society. WATERBODIES
Preservation and conservation of water bodies is a top priority. Conservation of Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake and Pollution abatement of various rivers along with development of ecofriendly and sustainable Tourist Villages, in the surrounds will be taken up on priority.