Over ₹152 crore allocated under key rural development schemes in Jammu and Kashmir remain unutilized, prompting the Union Ministry of Rural Development to urge the UT administration to expedite fund utilization to ensure timely benefits reach the intended rural population.

According to official data from the Plan Finance Management System (PFMS), the unspent amount spans across five major schemes: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).

💰 Scheme-wise Unspent Balances in J&K (as of early 2025)

• MGNREGS

  • ₹44.95 lakh under the Material Component

  • ₹2.93 crore under the Admin Component
    Objective: Guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment annually to willing rural households for unskilled manual work.

• PMAY-G

  • ₹28.9 crore unspent in the State Nodal Account (SNA)
    Objective: Providing pucca houses to the rural poor under the vision of “Housing for All.”

• PMGSY

  • ₹114.43 crore unspent in SNA
    Objective: Delivering all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural habitations, boosting socio-economic development.

• NRLM

  • ₹5.47 crore unspent as of March 25, 2025
    Objective: Reducing rural poverty through self-employment and skilled wage opportunities, creating sustainable livelihoods.

In total, ₹152 crore remains unutilized across these key programs in J&K.

🏔️ Ladakh Also Shows Unspent Balances

In the Union Territory of Ladakh, several schemes also showed underutilization:

• ₹1.5 crore under PMAY-G (as of April 1, 2025)

• ₹56 lakh under PMGSY

• ₹6.17 crore under NRLM

🗂️ Centre’s Directive: Ensure Timely & Transparent Spending

The Union Rural Development Ministry emphasized that allocation under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) is an ongoing process, made in installments based on fund utilization, submission of required documents, and actual ground-level requirements.

With the introduction of the Single Nodal Agency (SNA) model, fund release has become faster and more streamlined. The Ministry has urged the UT governments to leverage the transaction-based Management Information Systems (MIS) now in place to ensure real-time monitoring and strict compliance with guidelines.

“The UT Government must prioritize the timely and effective utilization of funds. These schemes are designed to transform rural life. Delays undermine their impact,” said a senior Ministry official.

The call for expedited utilization highlights the Centre’s concern over the slow pace of implementation, which could hinder rural development progress in the region.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed India’s firm stance on Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), declaring that the region is an integral part of India—both historically and legally.

Speaking at a national news summit in the capital, Shah stated, “PoJK is not just a claim; it’s our belief, backed by historical documents and legal standing.” He cited the 1994 unanimous resolution of the Indian Parliament, which asserts that PoJK is an inseparable part of India.

Slamming Pakistan, Shah said, “They cannot handle separatism in Balochistan or militancy in their own country. Instead of looking at India, they should address their internal crises.”

Balochistan has been the epicenter of separatist insurgency for decades, with militant groups such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) accusing Islamabad of exploiting the province’s natural resources while denying locals any benefits. The Home Minister made it clear, however, that India is not involved in the Balochistan movement, stating, “Provinces in Pakistan are disillusioned with the central government’s functioning, but India is not fuelling the fire.”

The recent March siege by the BLA, which left around 60 people dead, highlighted Pakistan’s deepening internal turmoil.

🛡️ Security in Jammu & Kashmir Remains Top Priority

Referring to his recent visit to Jammu and Kashmir from April 6–8, Shah said his meeting with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was “cordial” and focused on governance and development. He reiterated the Central Government’s commitment to supporting regional governments without bias, adding, “We are committed to working with J&K’s elected leadership.”

Shah also chaired high-level meetings with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and top officials of various security agencies, reviewing the progress of development projects and security measures.

🔺 Zero Tolerance for Terrorism

Issuing a stern warning to terrorists, Shah said that national security is non-negotiable. “We will not compromise, nor will we allow anyone else to compromise our national interests,” he emphasized.

Commenting on the recent terror attack in Kathua district, the Home Minister confirmed that the infiltration was backed by Pakistan. On March 27, two Pakistani terrorists were killed and four Indian policemen martyred during a fierce gunfight in the Safiyan Jakhole area. The infiltrators reportedly crossed from Pakistan’s International Border and were part of a freshly inducted group.

“Our forces are vigilant. Anyone involved in such acts will face dire consequences,” Shah asserted.

🌍 On Nepal’s Rising Political Sentiments

Responding to a question about recent rallies in Nepal advocating for a return to monarchy and a Hindu Rashtra, Shah maintained a neutral stance. “Nepal is a democracy, and people have the right to express their opinions,” he said.

The rallies, led by former Maoist leader Durga Prasai, have sparked political debate in the Himalayan nation.

In conclusion, the Home Minister reaffirmed India’s unwavering resolve in matters of national security, territorial integrity, and support for democratic principles in the region.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized on Wednesday that people’s cooperation is essential to eliminating militancy in the region and reiterated his party’s commitment to the restoration of Statehood. Speaking to the media outside the Assembly after the conclusion of a 21-day Budget Session, Omar addressed a wide range of political and security concerns currently dominating the Union Territory.

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🔥 “Terrorism Was at Its Lowest in 2014”

“The Government I was part of never tolerated terrorism. When we left office in 2014, militancy was reduced to just two-and-a-half districts,” Omar stated, referring to his tenure in the NC-Congress alliance government.

He added that the zero-tolerance policy against terrorism had shown positive outcomes and that the revival of public engagement was necessary to completely wipe out remaining militant threats.

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🤝 “People Must Be Taken Along”

Responding to Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent zero-tolerance directive, Omar echoed the sentiment but stressed:

“Without the cooperation of the people, we cannot succeed. In this fight, elected representatives and citizens must be actively involved.”

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🏛️ Statehood: A Promised Right

Omar reiterated that the restoration of Statehood remains a non-negotiable demand:

“This is our constitutional right. The Centre has promised it, and we hope the process will begin soon.”

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⚖️ Waqf Amendment Act Sparks Outrage

The National Conference (NC) leader also defended his party’s strong opposition in the Assembly over the Waqf Amendment Act, claiming it had hurt the sentiments of the Muslim majority in the region.

“Our MLAs wanted to express this pain inside the House. Since they weren’t allowed, we will raise our voice outside the Assembly as well,” he said, promising more clarity on the party’s future course of action.

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🎯 Jibes at PDP, People’s Conference

Taking sharp aim at rival parties, Omar accused the PDP and People’s Conference of being responsible for Kashmir’s political crisis:

“Those who once sat in BJP’s lap are now pointing fingers at me. They misled the youth and took them to the Home Minister’s events with toffees and cricket bats. Today, we are paying the price for their misdeeds.”

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📸 On Viral Photo with Minister Rijiju

Omar also addressed a controversy over a viral picture taken with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju at the Tulip Garden in Srinagar:

“It was pure coincidence. He wanted a photo; I couldn’t have been rude. Now those who brought BJP into Kashmir are trying to use this against me.”

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🌐 Free Trade, Global Policies, and the US-China Shift

In a surprising segue, the former CM also touched on global trade politics, criticizing the protectionist policies adopted by the United States.

“America, once a champion of free trade, is now behaving like China. Meanwhile, China is promoting free trade. This reversal is strange and potentially harmful to global economic stability.”

Recalling his time in the Vajpayee-led NDA government, Omar said:

“Back then, the US was the strongest voice against import restrictions. Today, they are the ones imposing them.”

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🕊️ On India-China Relations

Omar said peace with China is welcome, but it must include territorial acknowledgment:

“If China accepts that Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh are integral parts of India, it would be a great step forward.”

The Jammu and Kashmir Government informed the Legislative Assembly today that the Union Territory currently has one doctor for every 1,880 patients, acknowledging the strain on healthcare services while outlining ongoing efforts to improve the doctor-patient ratio.

In a written reply to a question raised by MLA Wagoora-Kreeri, Irfan Hafiz Lone, the Minister In-charge of the Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department stated that the department is continuously referring vacancies for Medical Officers and Assistant Professors to the J&K Public Service Commission in a bid to bridge the gap.

👨‍⚕️ Recruitments Underway to Strengthen Healthcare

The reply noted that 365 Medical Officers and 105 Assistant Professors have recently been appointed. In addition to regular recruitments, the Government is also availing services of healthcare professionals on a contractual basis under the National Health Mission (NHM).

As per the data shared:

• 96 Specialists,

• 418 Allopathic Medical Officers, and

• 874 AYUSH Medical Officers
  are currently serving across Jammu and Kashmir under NHM.

The Minister added that as per Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) norms, staffing requirements for Primary Health Centres (PHCs), New Type PHCs (NTPHCs), and Sub-Centres (SCs) are mostly met. However, there is no provision for specialists at PHC level under the current guidelines.

🏥 Healthcare Facilities in Wagoora-Kreeri Constituency

In response to a query regarding medical infrastructure in the Wagoora-Kreeri Constituency, the Government reported the existence of 17 health institutions, including:

• CHC Kreeri,

• PHCs at Kalantra and Shrakwara,

• NTPHCs at K. Muqam, Nowpora, and Dudbug, and

• SCs at Bulgam, Authoora, Chinned, Wagoora, Shaikhpora, Sherpora, Sultanpora, Walraman, Tangwari Bala, Waripora Bala, and Nilser.

These institutions provide free screening for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and various forms of cancer (oral, breast, cervical). Essential medicines and diagnostics are also provided at no cost — 175 drugs and 39 diagnostics at PHCs, and 96 drugs and 14 diagnostics at SCs.

🏗️ Infrastructure Development and Upgradation Plans

On the question of infrastructure expansion, the H&ME Department confirmed that administrative approval has been accorded for the construction of additional floors (G+2) at SDH/CHC Kreeri, and tendering is in progress by the R&B Department.

However, the Sub-Centre at Wagoora does not meet the IPHS criteria for upgradation to NTPHC. The Government cited the population figures — 3,000 in Wagoora and 7,000 in adjoining areas — and the proximity of nearby health facilities like SDH Kreeri (4.5 km), PHC Shrakwara (3.2 km), and PHC Kalantra (6 km) as sufficient for current needs.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah today chaired a high-level security review meeting at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar, where he directed security agencies to intensify anti-terror operations with the goal of completely eradicating terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir. He also reaffirmed the Modi Government’s commitment to establish lasting peace and fast-track development in the Union Territory.

🔒 Anti-Terror Strategy Strengthened

Shah praised the efforts of security forces for the significant decline in infiltration and terror recruitment in recent years. He emphasized the full implementation of the Area Domination Plan and the Zero Terror Plan, directing agencies to work in seamless coordination to sustain the security gains achieved post the abrogation of Article 370.

“Due to sustained and coordinated efforts of the Modi Government, the entire terror ecosystem nurtured by elements inimical to our country in Jammu and Kashmir has been crippled,” said an official statement.

Present in the security review were LG Manoj Sinha, Union Home Secretary, Army Chief, GOC Northern Command, Deputy Chief of Army, GOCs of 15, 16, and 9 Corps, heads of intelligence and security agencies including IB, NIA, BSF, CRPF, SSB, ITBP, and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Shah reiterated the Modi Government’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, instructing all agencies to intensify vigilance and joint operations.

🛕 Preparations for Amarnath Yatra Reviewed

The Home Minister also reviewed security and logistical arrangements for the upcoming Shri Amarnathji Yatra, scheduled from July 3 to August 9, and instructed relevant agencies to ensure its peaceful and smooth conduct.

📈 Development Review: ‘J&K on Path of Prosperity’

In a separate meeting focused on development initiatives, Shah reviewed key infrastructure and welfare projects and stressed the need to accelerate growth across sectors. He said the Centre is committed to unlocking the full potential of Jammu and Kashmir through inclusive development.

“The Modi Government is working with an unwavering resolve to build a developed and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. The region is accelerating on the path of growth in every sector,” Shah stated.

Among the attendees were LG Manoj Sinha, former CM Omar Abdullah, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Chief Secretary Atal Duloo, and various departmental secretaries.

🏗️ Sector-Wise Achievements Highlighted

The meeting featured presentations on achievements in power, connectivity, tourism, agriculture, industry, and youth empowerment. Officials also shared details of financial assistance allocated to the Union Territory in the current fiscal year and highlighted progress under multiple centrally sponsored schemes. Senior officials from departments of Health, PWD, Education, Planning, Rural Development, IT, Finance, and Sports were also present, underlining the government’s all-inclusive developmental push.