Discussion on Budget 2026-27 concludes in Legislative Assembly

Jammu : The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Tuesday concluded the discussion on Budget 2026-27 with Legislators deliberating on various developmental priorities besides sector specific issues.
Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma highlighted that the Budget 2026-27 serves as a one-year roadmap for the government, emphasizing the need for relief measures for the public and addressing the Opposition’s concerns, particularly regarding employment, the regularization of daily wagers, and support for families affected by terrorism. He called for a job policy specifically for the unemployed youth in Jammu and Kashmir. MLA Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri supported the Budget, stating that it reflects the government’s collective responsibility and prioritizes capital investment over populism. He noted that the Budget was developed through extensive consultations with stakeholders to promote inclusivity and balanced development in the region. Legislator Saif-ud-din Bhat echoed this sentiment, asserting that the Budget addresses key issues and promotes sustainable use of Kashmir’s natural resources, while also calling for improvements in health, education, and infrastructure. MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania pointed out the diverse opinions on the Budget, suggesting that more concrete steps towards employment generation were necessary. Legislator Sajad Gani Lone expressed concern over the reliance on outsourcing jobs and advocated for a focus on creating a positive economic environment to attract investment and generate sustainable employment. MLA Mian Mehar Ali acknowledged the positive aspects of the Budget but stressed the importance of equitable development between rural and urban areas, particularly through the opening of tourist destinations to enhance local livelihoods. Legislator Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed Pardesi noted the visible positive changes in people’s lives due to the Budget’s initiatives. MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta emphasized that the effectiveness of governance is measured by the tangible outcomes of government actions. Legislator Irfan Hafiz Lone highlighted the Budget’s commitment to the welfare of the people, urging attention to the long-standing demands of various worker groups and prioritizing health and education. MLA Irshad Rasool Kar called for flood management measures around Wular Lake and acknowledged the improvements made over the past year. Legislator Mushtaq Guroo described the Budget as people-friendly, ensuring the interests of the poorest are safeguarded. MLA Randhir Singh appreciated the consultative approach in budget formulation, while Legislator Javaid Riyaz Bedar commended the improvements in connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. MLA Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh urged the government to expedite pending projects in his constituency, and MLA Tariq Hameed Karra characterized the Budget as embodying hope, intent, and delivery, with a focus on rural and infrastructural development. He welcomed initiatives for electricity, support for farmers, and upgrades in health and education, stressing the need for effective implementation.