The government led by Omar Abdullah has divided the 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir among five cabinet ministers, assigning four districts to each minister.
The initiative aims to improve coordination, effectively monitor public services, and efficiently address local issues, especially in light of the growing demand for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters in Jammu on December 9, Abdullah stressed the importance of restoring statehood. He said that a dual-power system is not beneficial to anyone.
“It does not exist anywhere else in India,” he remarked. “Jammu and Kashmir has the right to full statehood because the people here have elected their government, which should function independently.”
He said that the restoration of statehood is a long-standing promise made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, one that has been assured publicly, in Parliament, and even in the Supreme Court.
“Statehood will create a single power centre in Jammu and Kashmir, which is essential for the welfare of the people,” he said.
Although the central government has indicated that statehood will eventually be restored, it has not provided a timeline for this process.
In light of the growing concerns among the MLAs from the National Conference (NC) and the need to fulfil commitments made during elections, the Abdullah-led government has assigned each minister to oversee the development of four districts. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary will oversee the Jammu, Poonch, Anantnag, and Shopian districts, focusing on implementing development projects and addressing public grievances.
Sakina Masood (Itoo), who holds portfolios in Health, Education and Social Welfare has been assigned to Kupwara, Srinagar, Kathua, and Samba districts.
Javed Ahmed Rana, the Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Tribal Affairs will handle the Doda, Rajouri, Pulwama and Baramulla districts, focusing on water resources, environmental protection, and tribal welfare.
Javid Ahmad Dar, responsible for Agriculture, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Elections, will manage Ganderbal, Budgam, Kishtwar and Ramban districts, with a focus on rural development and election processes. Satish Sharma, the Minister for Food, Transport, and Youth Services, has been assigned to Reasi, Udhampur, Kulgam, and Bandipora districts.
He will work on improving food distribution, transportation, and youth programmes. This division of responsibilities is expected to enhance governance and ensure that developmental programmes reach all parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
