21 Jan: The Chief Minister today chaired a series of pre-budget meetings with various government departments to review sector-wise priorities, assess public needs, and align budgetary proposals with the broader development goals of Jammu and Kashmir.
During the deliberations, the Chief Minister emphasised the need for a people-centric budget that directly addresses the aspirations and challenges of citizens across urban and rural areas. Departments were asked to focus on programmes that ensure efficient service delivery, optimal utilisation of resources, and measurable outcomes.
Special emphasis was laid on initiatives that promote inclusive growth, strengthen basic infrastructure, enhance employment opportunities, and improve access to essential services such as health, education, drinking water, power supply and road connectivity. The Chief Minister underscored that development planning must remain responsive to grassroots realities and public feedback.
Reviewing departmental proposals, the Chief Minister called for greater coordination among departments to avoid duplication and ensure convergence of schemes. He stressed that innovation, transparency and accountability should guide all budgetary planning to maximise public benefit.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to prioritise welfare-oriented schemes, particularly those aimed at youth, women, farmers and marginalised sections. Departments were encouraged to adopt technology-driven solutions to improve governance efficiency and service outreach.
Highlighting the importance of fiscal discipline, the Chief Minister said that development initiatives should be sustainable and aligned with long-term economic and social objectives of the Union Territory. He reiterated the government’s commitment to balanced regional development and equitable allocation of resources.
The pre-budget consultations are part of a comprehensive exercise to ensure that the upcoming budget reflects the needs and aspirations of the people while accelerating Jammu and Kashmir’s development trajectory.
