Jammu and Kashmir’s 2026-27 Budget: A Path Towards Welfare and Development
The recently unveiled budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 in Jammu and Kashmir, announced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, showcases a comprehensive strategy to bolster the economy, enhance social sectors, and foster sustainable growth throughout the Union Territory.
Key highlights of the budget include a strong focus on science and technology, agriculture, healthcare, education, tourism, and social welfare. The primary goals are to stimulate employment opportunities, advance infrastructure development, and provide support to marginalized populations.
One of the significant initiatives outlined in the budget is the revival of Kathua and Handwara Biotech Parks to encourage research, foster entrepreneurship, and create high-end scientific employment opportunities.
Furthermore, the budget proposes various sustainable measures such as solar pumps for farmers, solarization of government buildings, establishment of small hydro projects, and the creation of solar villages in tribal regions.
To promote innovation and education, the government plans to invest in research and development, offer scholarships up to the PhD level, and expand EV charging infrastructure.
In a bid to strengthen the economy and crafts sector, Abdullah announced the establishment of Unity Mall as a permanent crafts bazaar and the expansion of Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) outreach through national and global platforms.
Moreover, the budget emphasizes transparency in financial management by transitioning to Aadhaar-based Direct Benefit Transfer through the SPARSH program.
On the social welfare front, the budget includes initiatives such as full fee waivers for students from economically weaker families, free LPG cylinders for eligible households, and monthly sponsorship support for orphan children.
In the agriculture and rural development sector, the budget proposes crop insurance coverage for key crops like apple, saffron, mango, and litchi, alongside the expansion of controlled atmosphere storage facilities in underserved districts.
For education and youth empowerment, the government plans to introduce JK e-Pathshala DTH channels for Classes 1 to 12, upgrade anganwadi centers, provide indoor sports facilities in government schools, and prioritize local youth hiring in industries receiving government concessions.
Healthcare improvements are also on the agenda, with plans to expand facilities at Lal Ded Hospital, establish a new Mother and Child Hospital at GMC Anantnag, and set up Cath Labs in various districts.
The overarching goal of the budget is to promote inclusive development, enhance public service delivery, and drive economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.
