The Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced that the National Conference government will provide 200 free electricity units to the people of Jammu Kashmir starting in March 2025.
This initiative, which aligns with the party’s election manifesto, is set to offer significant relief to households, especially during the winter months when electricity demand traditionally spikes.
Speaking in a recent interview with a Delhi news channel, Abdullah emphasized that the immediate priority is ensuring a consistent power supply throughout the harsh winter.
“At present, our focus is to ensure maximum electricity availability during winter, and we will introduce 200 free electricity units from March next year,” he said.
The Chief Minister also addressed concerns over employment, revealing that several government vacancies have already been referred to recruitment agencies.
Abdullah reassured the public that the National Conference remains committed to fulfilling all campaign promises within five years.
“We will honor all the commitments we made to the people, and before seeking votes again, we will present our record to the public,” he stated.
When asked about the ongoing debate over dynastic politics, Abdullah rejected criticisms from the BJP, labeling them as politically convenient.
“The BJP only opposes dynastic politics when it suits them. They have no problem with political dynasties within their own ranks,” he remarked, pointing out what he described as a double standard in their stance.
The discussion also turned to Abdullah’s own political legacy. Reflecting on his family’s long-standing influence in Jammu and Kashmir politics, he acknowledged the contributions of his grandfather, Sheikh Abdullah, and his father, Farooq Abdullah.
However, he stressed that family connections alone cannot sustain a political career.
“Being from a political family doesn’t guarantee success. My own experiences show that political lineage isn’t a lifelong ticket,” he said, referencing his own defeat in a parliamentary election earlier this year before reclaiming his Assembly seat.
In response to questions about his sons, Zamir and Zahir, who have recently entered the political conversation, Abdullah made it clear that any future success they might find will need to be earned.
“They will have to carve out their own space. No one will hand them anything on a plate,” he said, adding that success in politics requires more than just a prominent family name.
Abdullah further emphasized the importance of having a backup career outside of politics, sharing his own experience of being out of power between 2018 and 2024.
“We are essentially glorified daily wagers in politics. We may be in power today, but there’s no certainty about tomorrow,” he remarked. He advised his sons to pursue independent careers, adding, “You need something to fall back on.”
Drawing a parallel with other industries like sports and acting, Abdullah noted that while family connections might help in gaining initial recognition, long-term success depends on individual merit.
“Anyone can get recognition at first, but if they don’t perform, they won’t last long,” he concluded.