J&K Development Accelerated After Art 370 Abrogation: Union Minister Athawale

Srinagar Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant developmental progress following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, highlighting improved connectivity, welfare initiatives and rising economic activity in the Union Territory.
Addressing a press conference, Athawale said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, major strides have been made in strengthening road and rail infrastructure in the region, which has enhanced mobility and boosted economic activities.
He said rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir has expanded significantly with improved facilities and the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express. The Minister added that the Ministry of Railways continues to work on further strengthening the railway network in the region.
Athawale said the pace of development has accelerated after the abrogation of Article 370, noting that increased investment, improved infrastructure and various government initiatives have created more employment opportunities and contributed to faster economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting welfare schemes implemented in the Union Territory, the Minister said that as of March 2026, around 24.37 lakh bank accounts have been opened under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, with a fund allocation of ₹1,754.25 crore between 2014 and 2026, aimed at strengthening financial inclusion.
He also said that 12.79 lakh LPG connections have been provided in Jammu and Kashmir under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana to ensure access to clean cooking fuel.
According to the Minister, about 25.09 lakh loans amounting to ₹54,267.91 crore have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana between 2015 and 2026 to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
He further said that 35,000 houses worth ₹586 crore have been constructed in the Union Territory under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) from 2016 to 2026.
Athawale added that ₹3,638 crore has been provided under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana from 2018 to 2026, benefiting about 19.73 lakh people in Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, ₹94 lakh has been released between 2023 and 2025 for the establishment and functioning of 13 old age homes in the Union Territory.
Speaking about India’s economic progress, the Minister said the country has moved from being the 10th largest economy to the fourth largest in the world and is expected to soon become the third largest economy. He attributed this progress to initiatives such as the Make in India and continued support to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Athawale also said the government plans to conduct a caste-based census to better understand the socio-economic conditions of various communities, noting that Scheduled Castes constitute around 16.6 per cent of India’s population.
He further stated that persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) in Jammu and Kashmir are now receiving reservation benefits following the abrogation of Article 370, ensuring greater access to opportunities and social justice.
Responding to queries on global developments, the Minister said fuel supply could be affected due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. However, he assured that the government has adequate fuel stocks and is taking necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted supply across the country.
PIB