Jammu, Feb 03: The discussion on Motion of Thanks on Lieutenant Governor’s Address commenced in Legislative Assembly today.
The motion was moved by MLA Showkat Hussain Ganie and seconded by MLA Dr. Rameshwar Singh.
Initiating the debate, Showkat Hussain Ganie stated that more than 7000 people have been employed since Omar Abdullah assumed office, while around more than 23000 more are currently in the process of recruitment. He acknowledged that the tourism sector had suffered initially, but noted that over two crore tourists have since visited the region, reflecting sustained efforts by the government to revive the sector.
Highlighting infrastructure development, he referred to construction of major roads and tunnels, including Sonamarg Tunnel, Shopian–Surankote National Highway and several flyover projects, aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic activity.
He further mentioned key welfare measures, including the free ration schemes and the enhancement of old-age pension, asserting that these initiatives were in line with the commitments made in the election manifesto.
Rameshwar Singh who seconded the motion, reflected the achievements in terms of education, health, rural infrastructure said that the present government has accepted the challenges and the work it has done is praise worthy.
He also expressed serious concern over the growing menace of substance abuse and drug addiction in the Union Territory, describing the figures as alarming.
Singh further emphasized that collective efforts are essential to ensure unity and sustained progress in Jammu and Kashmir.
Mohammad Yousuf Rather (Tarigami) highlighted that the Budget should have a provision for separate climate fund for Jammu and Kashmir, on the lines of provisions made in other States and Union Territories, to effectively address climate-related challenges.
Sham Lal Sharma said that people need respite from unscheduled power cuts and more efforts need to be taken in this direction as there has been significant increase in revenue realization in the power sector. He also said that JJM schemes need to be completed so that people will have regular water supply. He further said that more avenues need to be created for generating employment for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ghulam Ahmad Mir, while participating in the debate, asserted for more efforts from the government for restoration of statehood. He added that business rules shall also be finalized as soon as possible for smooth functioning of the Government.
Ajaz Ahmad Jan while speaking on the motion, said that pre-budget meetings were held By Chief Minister with all stakeholders so that the upcoming budget reflects aspirations of the people.
Arjun Singh Raju said that the government has made significant strides in development across various sectors, including power infrastructure, reduction of transmission and distribution losses, roads, education, health, and other key areas, particularly in Ramban district.
Speaking during the debate on Motion of Thanks, Baldev Raj Sharma spoke about various constituency specific issues.
Rafiq Ahmad Naik, in his address said that the Pre-Budget consultations of Chief Minister with Legislators is an encouraging step for charting the developmental road-map of Jammu and Kashmir. He also raised various constituency specific issues during the debate.
Salman Ali Sagar, while speaking in favour of the motion, said that Omar Abdullah led Government has laid great focus on socio-economic upliftment of people across all sections of society and has been working tirelessly for the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir.
While participating in the debate, Shakti Raj Parihar said that the Government should give focus on the development of Chenab Valley, including Doda district.
Speaking in support of Motion, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah said that due to strenuous efforts of Government, particularly Chief minister Omar Abdullah, tourism sector has revived across J&K. He added that Chief Minister participating in numerous conferences outside J&K like Mumbai, West Bengal, Gujrat, New Delhi and others, which in turn have translated into revival of tourism sector here.
Nizam-ud-din Bhat, in his address spoke about the basic privileges for the Legislators and also raised various issues of his constituency.
Participating in the debate, Payare Lal Sharma appreciated the government’s development-oriented vision for Jammu and Kashmir. He thanked Chief Minister for sanctioning Rs. 80 crore for electricity infrastructure in his constituency, improving power supply in the area. He also appreciated the government’s efforts in strengthening the Education and Health sectors by providing basic facilities to the people.
Hasnain Masoodi, while participating in the debate, appreciated the efforts of the government for sustainable development in J&K. He said that the government has developed a robust people centric mechanism and public grievances redressal system bringing transparency and good governance.
Devinder Kumal Manyal, during the debate spoke on various constituency specific issues. He sought upgradation of facilities in tourist and religious places like Utter Vani-Purmadal and Baba Chambyal.
