JAMMU, FEBRUARY 13: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed grants worth Rs. 3,24,177.48 crore for Public Health Engineering, Rs. 1,52,482.05 crore for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Rs. 1,60,699.61 crore for Irrigation & Flood Control, and Rs. 40,600.72 crore for the Tribal Affairs Department through a voice vote after a day-long debate.
Responding to the discussion, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology, Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, thanked the legislators for their suggestions and said the allocations reflect the government's commitment to sustainable development, reliable water resources, and the socio-economic empowerment of tribal communities.
Regarding Forests, he stated that nearly half of Jammu and Kashmir's geographical area is under forest cover, and highlighted increased allocations for conservation, plantation drives, and digitized demarcation. He also outlined measures for wetland mapping, wildlife protection, compensation for human-wildlife conflict, and initiatives such as sapling plantation and eco-tourism promotion. He added that the UT remains carbon-positive and air quality has improved in major cities.
Regarding Public Health Engineering, the Minister said the government aims to ensure access to drinking water for every rural household through the convergence of Jal Jeevan Mission, NABARD, and UT Capex resources. Over 15 lakh households have tap connections, water testing systems have been strengthened, and hundreds of projects are underway or targeted for completion. Measures to address shortages, strengthen flood restoration, and improve water management infrastructure were also highlighted.
For Irrigation and Flood Control, he noted increased capital expenditure, expansion of irrigation coverage under national schemes, progress on major projects, and strengthened flood management measures to boost agricultural productivity and resilience.
Regarding Tribal Affairs, he emphasized inclusive development through education, scholarships, hostels, infrastructure works, livelihood initiatives, and support for migratory communities. Key areas for 2026-27 include human development, economic strengthening, infrastructure, migration support, and cultural preservation.
The Minister reiterated the government's commitment to ecological security, water sustainability, and equitable development across Jammu and Kashmir.
