‘Hybrid Governance System’: J&K CM Omar warns officials against loopholes

TNN Bureau. Updated: 10/29/2024 2:43:20 AM Front Page

‘Received assurances on J&K statehood’, says Omar after meetings with PM Modi, HM Shah

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hinted that Jammu and Kashmir may soon regain statehood and urged officials to refrain from exploiting governance loopholes.
During a meeting with top government officials, Abdullah expressed concern over the 'hybrid governance system' in the Union Territory. He emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in public administration.
Abdullah's remarks come amid ongoing discussions regarding the future governance model of Jammu and Kashmir.
He revealed that he has received assurances from the central government about imminent changes to the region's governance structure, which may include a move toward restoring statehood.
"The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve a governance model that is responsive and accountable to their needs," Abdullah stated. "I urge all officials to act according to the principles of good governance and not take advantage of any loopholes in the system."
His comments reflect a growing sentiment among local leaders and citizens who are eager for a more stable and representative government through the restoration of statehood. As discussions on this issue gain momentum, Abdullah's warnings highlight the responsibilities of public officials during this critical phase.
Earlier, Omar Abdullah today chaired a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review the functioning and progress of Finance Department.
Chief Minister appreciated the focus on Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs) and improved revenue realization while noting that the receipt of CSS funds from Gol under different CSS during the current year is Rs. 10300crore as compared to Rs. 6386 crore and Rs. 5997 crore during 2022-23 and 2021-22 respectively.
Chief Minister emphasized that increased harnessing of CSS should be the top priority given the favourable sharing pattern.
“This should be ensured by close monitoring by the Administrative Secretaries/ HoDs, stepping up execution speed, and timely release of the Central and UT shares,” he maintained.
He also stressed the need for Administrative Departments to follow up issues pertaining to CSS with the respective Central Ministries.
Chief Minister noted the measures to constrain non-priority expenditure, increase tax revenue to create space for higher capital expenditure.
He stressed the need to expedite capital expenditure by all the Departments.
Chief Minister noted that the Departments need to achieve revenue realization against the targets.
He advised the Finance Department to release UT share on priority. Although GST collections have improved, he observed that there is scope for further improvement to achieve the targets fixed.
Chief Minister commended that the Government is on the right path of development and focusing on maintaining prudence in financial management.
He stressed that the Government should develop a coordinated system to ensure that the minimum prescribed procurement from local SHGs/ MSMEs on GEM Portal.
He noted that all autonomous bodies and universities should develop robust monitoring system to ensure judicious utilization of grants in aid, improve internal resources and avail external grants from different central agencies.
Chief Minister stressed that all the Administrative Secretaries should review working of their Departments so that better amenities are provided to people.
He urged the Finance Department to make steadfast progress on the fiscal reforms and pursue additional funding with the Central Government. He asked the Department to focus on improving revenue generation and restraining revenue expenditure.
He also administered the integrity pledge to ministers and officials in the secretariat, reinforcing the commitment of the Union Territory government to integrity and transparency in public service.
The pledge ceremony took place in the Civil Secretariat here and was attended by several ministers and Administrative Secretaries along with departmental officers.
The officers stationed at Jammu joined through video conference from the Civil Secretariat there, while Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Heads of Departments, and hundreds of schools participated from their district headquarters, ensuring widespread engagement across the region, an official spokesperson said.


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