K H Snippets: Highlights Of Previous Week

Srinagar: Below mentioned is the weeklong timeline of key public events and engagements of top public functionaries witnessed in the last week within and outside Jammu & Kashmir:-
1. CM Omar Presents First Budget, Projects 7.5% Economic Growth : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah presented his first budget in the Assembly, revealing the economy grew from ₹1.64 lakh crore in 2019-20 to ₹2.45 lakh crore in 2023-24. This is the first budget by an elected government since 2018. Abdullah also projected a 7.5% economic growth for J&K in 2024-25. He emphasized that the budget is a roadmap for a prosperous future, reflecting the aspirations of the people and laying a foundation for economic growth and social progress.
2. J&K’s Debt Stands At ₹1.25 Lakh Cr: Jammu and Kashmir’s total debt has reached ₹1.25 lakh crore, according to a statement by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. In response to a query by MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone, Abdullah disclosed that the debt includes loans from the Reserve Bank of India, National Savings Small Fund (NSSF), power bonds, and various other liabilities.
3. CM Omar Proposes ₹15 Crore For Glacial Lake Flood Risk Management: In a bid to address rising concerns over glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) and landslides, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah allocated ₹15 crore in the 2025 budget for risk monitoring, early warning systems, and mitigation strategies. The initiative aims to protect vulnerable communities and infrastructure.
4. J&K To Set Up National Law University in Jammu: A National Law University (NLU) will be established in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced in his budget speech. The government has allocated ₹50 crore for the development of the 28th NLU in India, aimed at bringing legal education in the region to national standards.
5. Free Electricity, Transport Benefits For AAY Families In J&K : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah unveiled a relief measure for families under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), announcing 200 units of free electricity and 10 kg of free ration every month starting April 1. Additionally, women will travel free on all government-operated transport, including e-buses, and marriage assistance for girls under AAY will be increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000.
6. Kashmir Schools Reopen After Winter Break: Schools in Kashmir reopened after a winter break of almost three months, following a delayed start due to inclement weather. Around 10,000 government and private schools resumed academic activities on Friday. Education Minister Sakina Itoo wished success to students and teachers as they begin a new academic session.
7. Morning Flight From Jammu to Srinagar Starting April 1: In response to a common complaint from government officers and businessmen, the Civil Aviation authorities will begin a morning flight from Jammu to Srinagar starting April 1, 2025. The new daily flight will depart at 10 am to ease travel between the two cities.
8. J&K Police to Host “Run For Fun – Jammu Marathon-2025”: The Jammu and Kashmir Police will host the “Run for Fun – Jammu Marathon-2025” on March 16 at Gulshan Ground, Jammu. A preparatory meeting was held to finalize arrangements for the event, which is being organized under the Police’s Civic Action Programme.
9. J&K Police Book Six Individuals For Glorifying Militancy: Jammu and Kashmir Police have booked six individuals in Budgam district for creating fake social media accounts and allegedly sharing content that glorified militancy. The police action is part of efforts to prevent the misuse of social media platforms to disturb public peace.
10. IPS Officer Uttam Chand Posted TO J&K: The Ministry of Home Affairs has posted IPS officer Uttam Chand to Jammu and Kashmir with immediate effect, following his repatriation from central deputation. Chand joined the Jammu and Kashmir cadre on February 24, 2025.
11. Sujit Kumar Appointed DIG In CRPF : The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the appointment of Sujit Kumar, IPS, as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on deputation. He will serve for five years or until further orders.