JAN 27 : JAMMU: Chief Minister today held an extensive pre-Budget consultation with a wide range of stakeholders from the Jammu Division as part of the ongoing exercise to frame a people-centric and inclusive Budget for Jammu and Kashmir.
During the interaction, the Chief Minister emphasised that the forthcoming Budget will be guided by regional aspirations and grassroots feedback. Stakeholders from diverse sectors shared their views and suggestions on development priorities, infrastructure needs, employment generation and measures to strengthen local livelihoods.
The discussions focused on improving physical and social infrastructure, including roads, power supply, urban amenities and rural connectivity. Special emphasis was laid on supporting agriculture, horticulture, tourism, small businesses and self-employment initiatives to boost income generation and economic resilience in the region.
The Chief Minister said that balanced development across regions remains a core objective of the government. He stressed that inputs from stakeholders are essential to ensure that the Budget addresses real public needs and promotes equitable growth across both urban and rural areas of Jammu Division.
Issues related to youth empowerment, skill development, healthcare, education and women’s participation in the economy were also discussed. Stakeholders underlined the importance of targeted interventions that can create sustainable employment opportunities and improve quality of life.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to participatory governance, the Chief Minister said that such pre-Budget consultations help bridge the gap between policy formulation and public expectations. He added that the suggestions received during the interaction would be carefully examined and incorporated wherever feasible while finalising the Budget.
The pre-Budget consultation is part of a broader series of interactions being held across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that the Budget reflects regional priorities, strengthens infrastructure, supports livelihoods and drives balanced and inclusive growth in the Union Territory
