JK govt hints at reassessing flood relief package proposal

The Jammu and Kashmir government today hinted at reassessing the proposal seeking a financial package of Rs 44,000 crore for the victims of last year's devastating floods, which was submitted by the previous dispensation.
"We will not demand more... We will make a factual estimate and sent it to them (central government)," Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed said while speaking on the concluding day of the Budget Session in the Assembly.
The Chief Minister said that he took up the issue of flood-hit people of the state with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to New Delhi.
"I have informed him (Prime Minister) about everything. I told him what we need to do... We have got a small amount of money so far," he said.

The previous state government led by Omar Abdullah had submitted a proposal of Rs 44,000 crore to the Centre for relief and rehabilitation of the flood victims.
Assuring that flood victims will be adequately compensated, he said small-time traders and destitute, who lacked insurance cover, shall be provided financial assistance from April 15 onwards, enabling them to restart their lives.

In his closing speech, Mufti also said that he would work towards promoting 'Border Tourism' in Jammu and Kashmir.
"Like the Wagah border, we will try to showcase the same in Suchetgarh," he said.
Describing the formation of PDP-BJP coalition government as a historic occasion that respected the mandate of people from all three regions of the state, Mufti said the alliance has the political legitimacy to govern the state as it represents everyone's aspirations.

"Congenial atmosphere in the state is a prerequisite to reap the benefits of a healthy democracy. ...People have suffered much due to the turmoil that hit the state over two decades ago. To realise our goals in realising J&K's full potential, peace has to be given a chance," he said.
He thanked all members of the Legislative Assembly, especially the youngsters and first-timers, for raising important issues during the proceedings of the House.
"All financial support in effectively taking care of the developmental needs of respective constituencies of the MLAs would be taken care of," he said.