Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has hinted at major political and administrative announcements after Eid-ul-Zuha. Although he did not specify the exact nature of the decisions, reports suggest they could relate to the restoration of statehood, as well as major concessions for local residents on government jobs and land-related issues.
Addressing a college function in Tangmarg in north Kashmir on Wednesday, Abdullah said, “There is a storm in my heart. Believe me, I want to burst like a cloud. Just wait till Eid; after that, I will speak openly at a public rally.”
He said the future of Jammu and Kashmir depends on students and added that the government is continuously working to improve education, employment, and economic opportunities in the region.
Highlighting the lack of private universities in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said parents are forced to spend huge amounts of money to send their children outside the Union Territory for higher education. Keeping this in mind, the government has passed a Private University Bill and is framing rules for its implementation.
He expressed hope that private universities would be established across the region and said places like Tangmarg offer favorable conditions for such institutions. He added that with its unmatched natural beauty, Kashmir has the potential to become a major education hub.
Abdullah also acknowledged that unemployment cannot be addressed through government jobs alone. He said the government aims to provide between 20,000 and 25,000 government jobs this year and emphasized self-employment initiatives such as the Mission Yuva programme.
Referring to the long-pending demand for restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said the government is frustrated with the continued delay by the Centre. He noted that despite public assurances, there has been little visible movement from New Delhi on the issue.
