Jammu and Kashmir targets major economic boost through central funding and infrastructure expansion

NEW DELHI, June 11 — Chief Minister Omar Abdullah participated in the 11th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog today, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he sought greater institutional support and investment to drive development in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking on the theme of inclusive human development for a developed India, the Chief Minister highlighted that the regional population has overwhelmingly chosen peace, progress, and democracy, establishing a solid foundation for growth.

He noted significant regional advancements in higher education and healthcare, including the operation of IIT, IIM, and AIIMS campuses alongside an increase in medical colleges from three to ten, while also pointing out that social indicators continue to rise despite challenges presented by difficult terrains.

To address geographical disadvantages, the Chief Minister urged the Union Government to extend the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment “Pride of Hills” development package to Jammu and Kashmir, matching the principles applied to other hill states. He detailed the success of local programs like Mission YUVA, which has mapped entrepreneurial potential across 24 lakh households and boosted registered startups.

Additionally, he highlighted the diversification of the local economy, citing a record arrival of 2.36 crore tourists in 2024 and the positive impact of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme on over 6.5 lakh farmers and nearly 8.5 lakh MSMEs.Focusing on energy and connectivity infrastructure, the Chief Minister emphasized the need to strengthen the joint venture model between the Centre and the region beyond 2028 to fully tap into Jammu and Kashmir’s 14,867 megawatt hydropower potential across the Chenab and Jhelum river basins.

He also described the Udhampur–Srinagar railway as a lifeline for the local apple economy and requested an augmentation of rail services ahead of the upcoming harvest season. Concluding his proposals, which included a request for a ₹5,500-crore tourism development plan for ten new circuits and the establishment of government medical colleges in eight uncovered districts, the Chief Minister reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir is committed to transforming its resources and human potential to contribute significantly to national growth.