Govt to make all efforts for restoration of full statehood, says L-G in Assembly

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha assured the newly elected legislative Assembly on Monday that the state government will make all efforts for the restoration of full statehood and constitutional guarantees available to the state.

Restoration of full statehood and constitutional guarantees would be a "befitting reciprocation" of the faith reposed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir in democratic institutions, he said in his maiden address to the Assembly.

Sinha said the government is fully geared up to realise the hopes and expectations of the people. He also talked about the Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet recently passed a unanimous resolution calling for the immediate restoration of statehood.

“The resolution reflects the collective will of the elected representatives, echoing the aspirations of the people for the reinstatement of full democratic governance,” he said.

“My government will make all efforts for restoration of full statehood and constitutional guarantees available to the state.

“In the meantime, I urge all stakeholders to work together as one team and extend full support to my government in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people,” the L-G said.

"Calling upon each of the legislators to play an active and committed role in building a prosperous, inclusive and forward-looking Jammu and Kashmir,” the L-G said this should be done with unity of purpose and commitment to improve the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, without any occasion for partisanship.

He also said the government will make efforts to rehabilitate Kashmiri migrants in the valley with dignity, for which a safe and secure environment will be created.

"Work on transit accommodation projects for Kashmiri migrants employees will be speeded up for providing them suitable accommodation at designated places," he said.

The L-G said the government is committed to provide 200 units of free electricity to deserving households for which modalities are being worked out.

“The J&K is endowed with abundance of water resources that are yet to be harnessed fully,” he said.

“My government is committed to harnessing their full potential so that their economic dividend enhances people's lives and J&K's financial position."

He said his government will seek the support of the Centre for a significant leap forward in our energy sector.

Talking about rail connectivity to the Valley, Sinha said it will be a reality soon.

“It will be a turning point for economic development and prosperity. Night landing facilities at Jammu and Srinagar airports will further enhance connectivity and boost the tourism sector further,” he said, adding that the government will pursue implementation of projects for rail connectivity to important unconnected areas.