New Delhi | Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday lauded Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his focused efforts to revive the Union Territory’s economy, particularly after major setbacks to the tourism sector.
Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, Sitharaman highlighted the gradual economic recovery of Jammu and Kashmir, recalling the revival of J&K Bank and the Centre’s micro-level interventions to strengthen the region’s financial ecosystem. She noted that the progress suffered a setback when tourism came to a halt due to regional security challenges, including incidents that impacted traveller confidence.
“I must acknowledge the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir who met me twice and remained sharply focused on restoring the economy after tourism suffered a major blow,” Sitharaman said.
Responding at the same event, Omar Abdullah thanked the Finance Minister for her appreciation and made a light-hearted remark requesting greater financial assistance. “Thank you for your kind words. Now, the next part — please show me the money, because funds are in very short supply,” he said.
Abdullah also stated that while maintaining a positive working relationship with the central government, he remains politically opposed to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He emphasized that cooperation with the Centre does not indicate a political alliance.
“I do not align with the BJP’s ideology, but I will continue to work with the Government of India wherever it benefits the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
On his relationship with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Abdullah described it as evolving and said discussions were ongoing.
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