Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced on October 7, 2026, that a decision regarding the expansion of his cabinet would be made after an upcoming Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting and subsequent consultations with the National Conference president, Dr. Farooq Abdullah. Abdullah made these remarks to reporters on the sidelines of a function held in Srinagar.
The prospect of a cabinet expansion has been discussed for several months. Previous timelines for this reshuffling were postponed to allow current ministers to focus on defending their respective portfolios during the recently concluded Autumn Session of the assembly, which ended on September 30. Under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, the strength of the council of ministers is capped at nine, representing one-tenth of the 90-member Legislative Assembly. The current council comprises six members, including Chief Minister Abdullah, leaving three vacancies.
Sources indicate that the delay in the cabinet expansion has led to discontent among some National Conference legislators, who have reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of certain ministers and the strain of managing multiple portfolios. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also publicly commented on the postponed expansion.
Beyond the cabinet reshuffling, Chief Minister Abdullah addressed recent administrative changes, clarifying that while some transfers were initiated by the elected government, others were conducted by the Lieutenant Governor. He affirmed the government’s commitment to working effectively with all appointed officials.
Regarding the Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), Abdullah stated that the pending recruitment rules are nearing completion. He explained that minor inconsistencies between the proposed and existing rules are being resolved to ensure a smooth implementation process, with the rules expected to be notified in the near future.
In terms of sports development, Abdullah highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance facilities and recruit coaches to improve training opportunities for young athletes across Jammu and Kashmir. He noted the establishment of an Olympic-size swimming pool in Kashmir, which will be equipped with solar-powered heating for year-round use. Additionally, an indoor gymnastics hall has been inaugurated, addressing the growing interest in gymnastics among the youth despite infrastructure limitations. The administration aims to broaden the range of sports available beyond traditional options like cricket, football, hockey, and volleyball, providing more choices for young people.
When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi completing 25 years in public life, Abdullah acknowledged that achieving continuous electoral success is a significant accomplishment.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
