CM holds pre-budget consultation with public representatives from Rajouri, Poonch

Jammu, Feb 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, as part of his ongoing pre-budget consultations, held deliberations Friday with public representatives from Poonch and Rajouri districts at the Civil Secretariat.
The discussions were attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary and Minister Javed Ahmad Rana, who represented their respective assembly constituencies. Chairpersons of District Development Councils and Members of the Legislative Assembly from the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch who participated, both in person and through virtual mode.
Addressing the participants, the Chief Minister reiterated that the purpose of these consultations was to gain firsthand insight into the priorities and aspirations of the people through their elected representatives.
“When we undertake new projects, it is our duty and responsibility to ensure that ongoing projects are completed with as much priority as new ones. Every project belongs to the people, and all ongoing works need to be completed on time ,” the Chief Minister said.
He assured that the issues and priorities raised by the representatives had been duly noted and would be considered for inclusion in the upcoming budget.
“You are the primary stakeholders—you meet people daily and understand their most pressing concerns. Our aim is to involve you in planning and development so that the voices of the people find a place in our governance,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized the crucial role of elected representatives in grassroots governance, stating that their feedback and inputs were vital in ensuring effective administration.
“Nobody understands the people and their issues better than you. We want to take Jammu and Kashmir to new heights of development and progress,” he added.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioners of Rajouri and Poonch presented district-wise updates on capex works that would be prioritized in the upcoming budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.
On the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, who represents the Nowshera assembly segment, highlighted several key issues in his constituency, including issue of shortage of doctors and paramedical staff, drinking water supply challenges, mobile network issues, bridges, road upgrades, and the four-laning of the Rajouri-Poonch Road beyond Akhnoor.
He also emphasized the need for tourism development in the region.
Similarly, Minister Javed Ahmad Rana, representing the Mendhar assembly segment, raised concerns related to drinking water supply, identification of new water sources, electricity, tourism development, employment and education.
Other MLAs from the respective constituencies also presented their demands and issues, covering a broad range of sectors, including tourism, agriculture, horticulture and urban development.