In Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, while presenting the budget for the Union Territory today announced a series of welfare measures aimed at improving the living standards of vulnerable sections, enhancing women’s empowerment and strengthening the education sector. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that the J&K government has approved 200 units of free electricity for all families under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY).
Additionally, from April 1, AAY beneficiaries will receive 10 kg of free ration every month, easing the financial burden on economically weaker sections. Under the Marriage Assistance Scheme, financial aid for eligible beneficiaries has been raised from Rs. 50 thousand to Rs. 75 thousand ensuring better support for underprivileged families.
All women in J&K will be eligible for free travel on government-operated transport, including e-buses, starting April 1. The initiative aims to enhance women’s mobility and access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. To ensure safe drinking water, the government will set up 98 water testing laboratories across Jammu and Kashmir this year, improving water quality monitoring and public health safety. A National Law University (NLU) will be developed in the region, with a budget allocation of Rs. 50 crore for its establishment. This move aims to enhance legal education and provide better academic opportunities for students in J&K.
Presenting the budget, CM Omar Abdullah emphasized that these measures are part of the government’s commitment to social welfare, women’s empowerment, and education reform in J&K.
