J&K sports tourism, budget rollout, statehood push

In early July 2026, Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced plans to advance tourism and power‑sector reforms. The following month he inaugurated the fifth edition of the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) J&K Open at Srinagar’s Royal Springs Golf Course, positioning the tournament as an annual showcase for golf tourism and unveiling a golf academy to nurture local talent. On the same day he chaired a review of the 2026‑27 budget implementation, urging faster project execution and greater transparency across health, education, social welfare, food supplies and transport.

Abdullah also called for world‑class cricket infrastructure, urging the BCCI to build two international‑standard stadiums in Jammu and the Valley to host IPL and international matches. Meanwhile, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah renewed the demand for restoring Jammu & Kashmir’s statehood, warning that the 2019 conversion to a Union Territory could set a precedent for other states.