Rehan Qayoom Mir
Jammu, Feb 6: The ruling National Conference-led government on Friday hailed the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Budget for 2026–27 as a “historic, inclusive and welfare-oriented” document, saying it reflects the administration’s commitment to balanced growth, employment generation and social welfare.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who presented the Budget in the Legislative Assembly earlier in the day, said the proposals were aimed at “transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a modern, progressive and economically vibrant region.”
“Our focus is on building a business-friendly ecosystem, strengthening healthcare and education, empowering youth and ensuring inclusive rural prosperity,” Omar told the House.
Defending the Budget later in a press conference, the CM said that despite financial constraints, his government has ensured welfare remains central to policy decisions.
“No Budget is an isolated document. It reflects a continuity of welfare measures and responsible fiscal management,” he said, adding that the government has avoided overburdening finances while ensuring targeted relief for the most vulnerable.
National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah described the Budget as “amazing and inclusive,” saying it “offers relief across all sections of society”.
“This is an excellent budget. It provides something for everyone, the poor, the youth, the farmers and the employees. I only hope its implementation matches its promise,” he said.
NC Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq termed the Budget “historic”, noting that “every sector of Jammu and Kashmir has been touched from farmers and women self-help groups to youth employment, entrepreneurs, horticulture and infrastructure”.
He said schemes for “3.5 lakh youth and 1.35 lakh entrepreneurs” show the government’s strong focus on job creation and empowerment.
“This is a good start. Rome was not built in a day, but this Budget shows the right intent and direction,” Sadiq said, adding that LPG subsidy concerns raised by the opposition were “misplaced”.
He added, “The manifesto is for everyone. We have started with those who need it the most, and gradually everyone will benefit.”
NC MLA Saifullah Mir said the Budget was “people-centric and focused on public welfare”.
“The Budget 2026 is inclusive and focused on welfare. Every section, from farmers to employees, finds representation in it,” he said, adding that the ruling dispensation’s priority remains “development with compassion.”
Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma also lauded the Budget as “very good”, highlighting its emphasis on border development and pilgrimage infrastructure while taking a swipe at the opposition for “habitual criticism”.
Sharma said key allocations include funding for bulletproof ambulances and hospitals in border regions like Uri and Poonch, as well as major allocations for the annual Amarnath Yatra and new infrastructure in collaboration with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
“The people who didn’t say a word have to criticise, they have to oppose,” he remarked. “Considering all regions and all religions, I think in the coming days, J&K will be the best,” he added.
