Kashmir Pen NEWS DESK
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 2: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as one of the fastest-growing States/Union Territories in the country, with development being guided by the core principles of Economy, Ecology and Equity.
Addressing the Legislative Assembly, the LG said these principles form the foundation of policy formulation and implementation, ensuring that growth remains balanced, inclusive and environmentally sustainable. While acknowledging notable progress across sectors, he emphasised the need for sustained and focused efforts to maintain the development momentum.
He said good governance continues to remain the cornerstone of the Government’s development strategy in Jammu and Kashmir. Reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, digital governance and citizen-centric service delivery have significantly strengthened public trust and institutional efficiency.
Highlighting the impact of digital initiatives, LG Sinha said that digital transformation has accelerated development and reinforced corruption-free governance, with over 1,500 public services now available online and 391 services integrated with the auto-appeal system to ensure timely delivery.
Describing the economic outlook of Jammu and Kashmir as encouraging, the LG said the UT is witnessing an annual nominal growth rate of around 11 per cent in 2024–25, reflecting the positive impact of sustained policy reforms, infrastructure expansion and proactive investment facilitation. He added that the Government remains committed to consolidating this growth through fiscal discipline and by creating diversified and sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women.
Sharing revenue indicators, LG Sinha said GST collections have recorded steady growth, rising from Rs 8,064 crore in 2023–24 to Rs 8,586 crore in 2024–25, while tariff from electric power registered a substantial increase of 16 per cent during 2024–25.
On employment, the LG said the Government has ensured transparent and merit-based recruitment, with 7,650 government posts filled during 2025, while the recruitment process for an additional 23,800 posts is currently underway. He also informed that 910 compassionate appointments were made during the year, including 464 appointments to Next of Kin of terror-affected families, to provide dignified livelihoods to families impacted by violence.
The LG presented a sector-wise performance overview and urged all Members of the House to work together in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility.
“Let us move forward with unity of purpose, transform challenges into opportunities, and collectively strive to build a Jammu and Kashmir that is peaceful, progressive, inclusive and prosperous, ensuring dignity, opportunity and hope for every citizen,” he said while concluding his address.
