J&K elections after a gap of several years a significant milestone, says J&K L-G Manoj Sinha in budget speech

J&K L-G Manoj Sinha highlights elections as a milestone in governance, emphasising transparency, infrastructure, and public trust in his budget speech.

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who delivered the budget speech in the J&K Assembly on Monday (February 2, 2026), said the elections held in J&K after a gap of several years marked “a significant milestone”.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the BJP expressed disappointment over the speech and its contents.

“The past year marks a significant milestone in the democratic journey of J&K with the formation of an elected government after a gap of several years. This transition to popular governance has strengthened public faith in democratic institutions. My government has focused on restoring participatory governance, rebuilding public confidence, and ensuring that the voice of every region and community finds expression in policy-making,” Mr. Sinha said.

“Highlighting the achievements made in service delivery, road connectivity, power sector and tourism,” Mr. Sinha said, “The development trajectory of J&K continues to be guided by the foundational principles of Economy, Ecology, and Equity. These principles are not merely aspirational but serve as the guiding framework for policy formulation and implementation.”

He said notable progress has been achieved across sectors, and the government remained conscious of the need for sustained and focused efforts to ensure balanced, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable development.

“Sustained reforms in transparency, accountability, digital governance, and citizen-centric service delivery have significantly strengthened public trust and institutional efficiency,” the J&K L-G said.