Omar’s First Month: Power Deal, Jobs Push Signal New Start for J&K

SRINAGAR, Nov 17: The Omar Abdullah-led government in Jammu and Kashmir has completed its first month in office with significant strides in addressing power shortages, unemployment, and administrative reforms, marking a new chapter in the Union Territory’s governance since its formation in 2019.
Abdullah, who took oath as Chief Minister on October 16 heading the National Conference government, secured an additional 300 MW power supply for the region after successful negotiations with Union Power Minister Manohar Lal. This crucial achievement, obtained at normal rates rather than higher emergency tariffs, is expected to provide substantial relief to both Kashmir and Jammu regions, which face severe power crises during winter and summer months respectively.
In a departure from traditional VIP culture, Abdullah’s immediate directive to the police to discontinue ‘green corridors’ for his movement has been viewed as a symbolic gesture prioritizing public convenience. Further emphasizing his commitment to accessible governance, he transformed his official Srinagar residence into a public redressal office, staffed with senior officials to handle citizen complaints.
The government has also taken significant steps to address unemployment concerns. A key initiative includes raising the upper age limit for open merit candidates appearing in Combined Competitive Exams from 30 to 35 years, with further relaxations for reserved categories (37 years) and physically disabled candidates (38 years). This fulfills one of the National Conference’s electoral promises, along with plans to implement the Jammu and Kashmir Youth Employment Generation Act within three months.
During his meetings with central leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Abdullah advocated for enhanced support for the Union Territory. A notable request included additional Central assistance of Rs 6,000 crore to address budgetary gaps for 2024-25. In discussions with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, he emphasized strategies for boosting local revenue generation and reducing dependence on central funding, particularly through investments in tourism, agriculture, and horticulture sectors.
The National Conference-led government has also taken a strong political stance by passing a resolution advocating for the restoration of statehood and special status. The resolution, introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, calls for dialogue with elected representatives while maintaining national unity.
In the education sector, responding to public demand, particularly from winter zones, the government announced reverting academic sessions for students up to Class 9 to the November-December timeline, moving away from the March session implemented earlier.
The National Conference, which secured 42 out of 90 assembly seats in recent elections, faces the challenge of presenting its first budget after six years of Central rule. According to senior government officials, the administration’s initial month has set a promising direction, focusing on public welfare and economic development while addressing the region’s unique challenges.
These developments mark a significant shift in J&K’s administrative landscape, with the new government balancing immediate public needs while laying groundwork for long-term developmental goals. The coming months will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing the region’s pressing challenges.