The J&K Legislative Assembly’s Budget Session utilized Question Hour to address high-stakes issues—ranging from urban governance and power reforms to forest conservation—reaffirming its role as a critical mechanism for regional accountability and development.
The ongoing Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has once again highlighted the importance of Question Hour as a platform for accountability. This week’s discussions revolved around disaster relief, urban governance, tourism development, power reforms, employee welfare and forest conservation—core issues that directly affect livelihoods and long-term development across the Union Territory. A key intervention concerned post-flood relief measures in Bandipora district. The government informed the House that free vaccination campaigns were conducted with 100 percent coverage against major livestock diseases following last year’s floods. Preventing outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease, Lumpy Skin Disease, Haemorrhagic Septicaemia and Black Quarter was crucial to safeguarding rural incomes. Free deworming medicines and operational Mobile Veterinary Units were also highlighted. Compensation under SDRF norms was disbursed to affected farmers after assessment and verification. While these steps reflect responsiveness, they also expose a deeper concern: disaster management in J&K remains largely reactive. Flood-prone districts require stronger mitigation strategies—improved drainage systems, livestock insurance coverage, and climate-resilient agriculture planning—so that relief does not become the only fallback each year. Urban governance was another focus. The government ruled out de-notification of the Seer-Hamdan Municipal Committee, citing population growth and infrastructure development since its establishment. The message is clear: urban institutions will be strengthened rather than rolled back. However, formal municipal status must translate into tangible civic improvements—better sanitation, drainage, road connectivity and transparent local governance. Without measurable upgrades, municipal expansion risks becoming a bureaucratic label rather than a development milestone. Tourism potential in Kupwara district also featured in deliberations. The area, known for destinations such as Lolab, Bangus and Keran, continues to draw domestic visitors.
“The Budget Session discussions emphasized the link between employment and social stability, alongside urgent strategies to reclaim 19,500 hectares of encroached forest land. While the government proposed technical and enforcement-led solutions like remote sensing and evictions, sustainable success requires community involvement and long-term planning. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these policies depends on the government’s ability to move beyond legislative rhetoric and deliver tangible results to its citizens.”
The government clarified that the district falls under an existing development authority and there is no proposal for a separate tourism body. The priority, therefore, should shift from administrative restructuring to sustainable infrastructure—eco-friendly facilities, regulated construction and improved connectivity that preserve fragile ecosystems while generating employment. Power sector reforms formed a significant part of the discussion. The government reiterated that 100 percent smart metering is being implemented in certain municipal areas under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, with completion targeted by September 2026. Uninterrupted power supply, it stated, depends on full smart metering coverage and reduction of Aggregate Technical and Commercial losses below prescribed thresholds. While smart metering promises billing transparency and reduced losses, public confidence will depend on consistent supply and fair tariffs. Consumers are more likely to accept reform when it brings visible improvement. Employee welfare and service regulation also came under review, particularly regarding PM Package employees. The government defended its service management framework, stating that protective measures have been put in place to regulate seniority, promotions and postings. In a region where employment is closely tied to social stability, transparent and equitable service policies remain essential. Environmental concerns rounded out the debate. With nearly 19,500 hectares of forest land reportedly under encroachment, the government outlined measures including surveys, eviction drives, fencing and use of remote sensing technology. Yet enforcement alone will not suffice; community participation and long-term ecological planning are critical for sustainable outcomes. Overall, the Budget Session discussions reflect a government keen to demonstrate activity across sectors. The real test, however, lies beyond legislative replies. Policies must convert into outcomes that citizens can see and feel. Question Hour should not only document assurances—it must catalyse delivery.
