Overview

• Omar Abdullah pressed New Delhi to wrap up discussions on restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, noting that residents have awaited autonomy since Article 370 was revoked in 2019.
• He rebuffed early media reports of an election-linked restoration as “planted stories” but affirmed he would step aside if fresh polls prove necessary.
• The Centre approved ₹10,600 crore in infrastructure schemes, including new tunnels on the Mughal Road and Sadhna Pass, to enable year-round access and stimulate economic growth.
• At an NCC national integration camp, Abdullah lauded cadets for fostering discipline and patriotism and urged them to serve as ambassadors showcasing Kashmir’s culture beyond headlines.
• This initiative follows a BJP promise to reinstate statehood after completing delimitation and elections, yet full restoration remains under negotiation.