On paper, the Union Budget for 2026–27 appears generous to Jammu and Kashmir. An allocation of Rs 43,290 crore, which is Rs 2,000 crore more than the revised estimate for the current year, suggests continuity and incremental support. Yet across markets in Srinagar, Pahalgam and Jammu, the mood is anything but reassured. For traders, hoteliers and transporters still counting losses after last year’s Pahalgam terror attack, the numbers simply do not add up.

The Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has urged the Centre to provide a “special, state-like package” for Jammu and Kashmir. And the health and education minister Sakina........

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