The remarks by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir have once again brought to light the critical issue of inadequate funding and poor coordination between the J&K Administration and the Ministry of Minority Affairs. While the Central Government has introduced several schemes to foster development in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and skill development, the lack of synergy between the two entities has hindered the effective implementation of these initiatives. Minister Rijiju’s candid admission that J&K has not received sufficient funding under Central Schemes is a cause for concern. The region, which has historically faced developmental challenges due to decades of conflict and political instability, is in dire need of robust financial support to rebuild its infrastructure, empower its youth, and uplift marginalized communities. However, the Minister’s assertion that the lack of coordination between the J&K Administration and the MMA is the primary bottleneck underscores a systemic issue that needs immediate redressal. The Central Government has rolled out several flagship programs, such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram and PM-VIKAS, which are designed to address the developmental needs of minority communities and artisan groups. These schemes aim to create essential infrastructure, provide skill development opportunities, and foster entrepreneurship. Yet, the benefits of these initiatives are not reaching the intended beneficiaries in J&K due to procedural lapses and administrative inefficiencies. As Rijiju pointed out, funding is only considered after schemes are uploaded on the portal, a step that seems to have been overlooked in J&K’s case.
Effective governance hinges on seamless coordination between different tiers of administration. In the context of J&K, where the transition from a State to a Union Territory has brought about significant changes in the administrative framework, the need for synergy between the central and local authorities cannot be overstated. The J&K Administration must work in tandem with the MMA to ensure that schemes are properly formulated, uploaded, and executed. This requires not only technical compliance but also a shared vision for the region’s development.
The Minister’s emphasis on prioritising 18 districts for scheme implementation is a step in the right direction. However, this must be accompanied by a robust monitoring mechanism to ensure that funds are utilised efficiently and transparently. Past experiences have shown that inadequate utilisation of funds has been a recurring issue in J&K, leading to suboptimal outcomes. This inefficiency has not only undermined the credibility of various development initiatives but has also resulted in lost opportunities for the people of J&K. Given the limited resources available, every penny allocated to the region must be used judiciously, with an eye on long-term growth and sustainability. To avoid a repeat of such scenarios, the administration must adopt a proactive approach, leveraging technology and data-driven insights to track progress and address bottlenecks in real time.
The Central schemes can catalyze change. The region’s rich tradition of handicrafts and artisanal work presents a unique opportunity for economic revival. By integrating skill development programs with market linkages, the Government can empower local artisans and create sustainable livelihoods. Similarly, the focus on healthcare and education must be complemented by efforts to improve service delivery and ensure equitable access.
The challenges highlighted by Rijiju are not insurmountable, but they do demand urgent attention. J&K’s development is not just a regional imperative but a national one, given its strategic importance and the aspirations of its people. For J&K to experience the growth it deserves, there must be a collective commitment. As J&K continues its journey towards normalisation and development, the onus is on both the central and local administrations to bridge the existing gaps and work towards a common goal. The region’s potential is immense, but unlocking it requires a concerted effort, characterised by transparency, accountability, and a shared commitment to progress. The Central Government must take the lead in fostering better coordination, while the J&K Administration must demonstrate the will and capacity to execute projects effectively.
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