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JAMMU: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislative leader and MLA from Pulwama, Waheed Ur Rehman Parra, has expressed deep disappointment over the Union Territory budget presented today, calling it a mere compilation of centrally sponsored schemes rather than a people-centric financial roadmap. Parra criticized the budget for failing to address critical issues like poverty alleviation, unemployment, and economic revival. "This budget is nothing but a U-turn from the commitments made in the election manifesto. Instead of prioritizing grassroots development, it merely repackages old schemes without any substantial allocations or vision for the future," he remarked.
He pointed out that despite tall promises of a transformative economic strategy, the budget falls short on key sectors such as agriculture, youth employment, and social welfare, raising serious concerns about the government’s intent in fulfilling its electoral pledges.
Parra further slammed the government for sidelining the aspirations of the youth, calling the budget a complete letdown. "With an allocation of ₹1.12 lakh crore, one would expect a clear roadmap for tackling unemployment, economic recovery, and public welfare. Shockingly, the budget does not even mention crucial terms like 'youth' or 'unemployment' at a time when J&K’s jobless rate stands at a staggering 32%," he stated.
He accused the government of betraying the region’s youth, who had been waiting for decisive action. "Instead of being a step towards empowerment and development, this budget is merely an exercise in numbers, offering no real relief to the common citizen."
Parra also highlighted the plight of vulnerable sections of society, including casual laborers, daily wagers, contractual workers, vocational trainers, SPOs, and BPL families, who he said had been completely ignored. "There is no provision for regularizing workers, no wage revisions, and no financial security for those who form the backbone of J&K’s economy," he added.
Commenting on the government’s announcement that Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families would receive 200 units of free electricity, Parra called it a deceptive relief measure. He pointed out that under the PM Surya Ghar scheme, families must install rooftop solar panels—costing at least ₹80,000—to qualify for the benefit.
"In Kashmir’s harsh winters, even a poor household with basic appliances like a heater, four bulbs, and a water boiler consumes between 800 to 1,500 units per month. If only 200 units are subsidized, families will still be left with massive electricity bills running into thousands of rupees. The requirement of purchasing a solar panel system further burdens low-income families already struggling to meet daily expenses," he explained.
