Jammu: The discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the Lieutenant Governor’s Address commenced in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Monday.
The motion was moved by MLA Showkat Hussain Ganie and seconded by MLA Dr Rameshwar Singh. Initiating the debate, Ganie said that more than 7,000 people have been provided employment since Omar Abdullah assumed office, while over 23,000 recruitments are currently underway. He acknowledged that the tourism sector had initially faced setbacks but noted that over two crore tourists have since visited Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting sustained efforts by the government to revive the sector.
Highlighting infrastructure development, Ganie referred to the construction of major roads and tunnels, including the Sonamarg Tunnel, the Shopian–Surankote National Highway and several flyover projects, aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic activity. He also underscored welfare initiatives such as free ration schemes and enhancement of old-age pensions, stating that these measures were in line with commitments made in the election manifesto.
Seconding the motion, Dr Rameshwar Singh highlighted achievements in education, health and rural infrastructure, describing the government’s performance as praiseworthy. He, however, expressed serious concern over the rising menace of substance abuse and drug addiction in the Union Territory, calling the figures alarming and stressing the need for collective efforts.
During the debate, MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami called for a separate climate fund for Jammu and Kashmir in the Budget, on the lines of other States and Union Territories, to address climate-related challenges effectively. Sham Lal Sharma raised concerns over unscheduled power cuts despite increased revenue realisation in the power sector and urged completion of Jal Jeevan Mission schemes to ensure regular water supply. He also sought greater focus on employment generation for youth.
Ghulam Ahmad Mir emphasised the need for intensified efforts towards restoration of statehood and early finalisation of business rules for smooth functioning of the government. Ajaz Ahmad Jan said pre-budget meetings held by the Chief Minister with stakeholders would ensure that the upcoming Budget reflects public aspirations.
Arjun Singh Raju highlighted development across sectors such as power, roads, education and health, particularly in Ramban district. Several members, including Baldev Raj Sharma, Rafiq Ahmad Naik and Devinder Kumar Manyal, raised constituency-specific issues during the discussion.
Speaking in favour of the motion, Salman Ali Sagar said the Omar Abdullah-led government has focused on socio-economic upliftment and holistic development across all sections of society. Shakti Raj Parihar sought special attention to the development of Chenab Valley, including Doda district, while Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah credited the revival of tourism to the government’s sustained outreach and the Chief Minister’s participation in national-level conferences.
Other legislators, including Nizam-ud-din Bhat, Payare Lal Sharma and Hasnain Masoodi, also participated in the debate, appreciating the government’s people-centric governance, public grievance redressal mechanisms and development-oriented vision, while flagging issues related to infrastructure, basic facilities and regional development.
