NC govt fulfilled key manifesto commitments in 19 months: Sakeena

Srinagar, Jun 25: Minister Sakeena Itoo on Thursday said the Omar Abdullah-led government has fulfilled several major commitments outlined in the National Conference (NC) manifesto and remains committed to delivering on the remaining promises through a people-centric governance approach.
Speaking to reporters after addressing a gathering in Tral, Itoo, said that a series of welfare initiatives and governance reforms have been undertaken by the government during the past 19 months. She said the administration has focused on improving public services, strengthening accountability, and extending benefits to vulnerable sections of society across Jammu and Kashmir.
Referring to social welfare measures, the minister said the government had fulfilled its commitment to enhance old-age pensions and marriage assistance schemes.
She pointed to the introduction of free bus travel for women and reforms in the academic calendar as significant steps aimed at easing the burden on citizens and improving public service delivery.
“We had promised to increase welfare assistance, and today those commitments have been translated into action,” she said, adding that the government is steadily implementing its agenda for the welfare of the people.
The minister further said the process for providing six free LPG cylinders to eligible beneficiaries is underway and has already received approval. The work is also progressing on electricity subsidies and other measures intended to provide financial relief to households, she added.
Sakeena said the government has significantly strengthened healthcare infrastructure and manpower. “509 doctors were appointed initially, followed by the recruitment of another 424 doctors to improve medical services across the Union Territory,” she said. “Dialysis facilities have been expanded in hospitals, and several non-functional oxygen generation plants have been revived to strengthen healthcare preparedness and ensure better treatment facilities for patients.”
On governance reforms, Itoo said accountability mechanisms have been reinforced across various departments to improve efficiency and transparency.
She said the government is working for every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of political affiliation or voting preferences. “The government belongs to all people of Jammu and Kashmir and is committed to ensuring inclusive development and equal opportunities for everyone,” she said.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament (MP) Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan addressed a meeting of NC workers in Tral and expressed satisfaction over the participation of both senior and newly joined party members.
Speaking to reporters, he said that party workers who could not attend the meeting would be engaged in future organisational programmes.
“National Conference plans to hold a major public rally in Tral within the next two to three months. The event would reflect the party’s organisational strength and grassroots support in the region,” he said.
Referring to the party’s election manifesto, the MP said the NC remains committed to fulfilling the promises made to the people. “Upon completion of its term, the party would place both its manifesto commitments and the work accomplished before the public,” he said.
“We will present our promises alongside our performance and let the people decide on that basis in the next elections,” Ramzan said, adding that voters would judge the government on its record of delivery and public service. (KNO)