In a significant move to enhance representation for the Jammu region, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appointed Surender Choudhary as the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah emphasized the need for inclusivity in governance, stating, "Our endeavour will be to take everyone along." Choudhary, known for his political journey and as a former member of both the PDP and BJP, recently made headlines by defeating BJP's J-K president Ravinder Raina in Nowshera by a margin of 7,819 votes. This appointment reflects Abdullah's commitment to ensuring that the people of Jammu feel represented in the government, especially following the political changes that followed the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The National Conference, in alliance with Congress, secured a majority in the recent assembly elections, winning 42 out of 90 seats. With three ministerial vacancies remaining, Abdullah assured that these would be filled gradually to strengthen the government further.