The recent review meeting of the Budget 2023-24 by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir sheds light on both achievements and areas necessitating further attention in the fiscal management of the Union Territory. The comprehensive analysis presented during the meeting reflects a concerted effort towards ensuring fiscal prudence and effective utilization of resources, while also emphasizing the imperative for sustained development and good governance.
One of the notable aspects highlighted in the review is the emphasis on revenue realization and expenditure control. The imposition of austerity measures to curb revenue expenditure demonstrates a commitment to financial discipline, which has in turn facilitated an expansion in capital expenditure. This balance between restraining current expenses while bolstering investments for future growth is fundamental for the economic well-being of the region.
Furthermore, the meeting underscores the importance of maximizing revenue generation avenues, particularly through user charges and fees. The breakdown of revenue streams from various departments illustrates the potential for enhancing income through calibrated user fees. Such measures not only contribute to financial sustainability but also ensure equitable cost recovery for services rendered.
Below is a table showcasing revenue by year for various departments:
| Department | Revenue by 2018-19 (Rs in Lacs) | Revenue by 2022-23 (Rs in Lacs) | Revenue by 31.1.2024 (Rs in Lacs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 222932 | 362297 | 306600 |
| Revenue Registration | 9150 | 55566 | 51260 |
| Forest | 1080 | 17800 | 11000 |
| Tourism | 9656 | 16356 | 2256 |
| Transport | 7610 | 15208 | 20171 |
| HUDD | 8470 | 11910 | 11180 |
| Jal Shakti | 5533 | 10344 | 4631 |
| Mining | 5143 | 10116 | 13059 |
| PWD | 2824 | 5735 | 1758 |
| Agri-Flori-Horti | 2042 | 4270 | 1576 |
| Health | 2645 | 3382 | 1842 |
| Estates Hospitality | 650 | 1059 | 633 |
| Irrigation | 230 | 893 | 863 |
| Law | 7490 | 363 | 259 |
| School Edu | 147 | 256 | 209 |
| Higher Edu | 151 | 193 | 185 |
| Industry & Handi | 63 | 131 | 128 |
| Skill Devt | 55 | 68 | 24 |
| Youth & Sports | 29 | 59 | 233 |
| Culture & Archive | 23 | 23 | 20 |
| Total | 285923 | 516029 | 427887 |
The commitment to harnessing funds from centrally sponsored schemes (CSS) is another significant aspect of the review. The substantial increase in CSS funding underscores the potential for leveraging central support to bolster developmental initiatives across various sectors. However, it is crucial for administrative authorities to streamline processes and expedite the utilization of allocated funds to optimize the benefits derived from these schemes.
The directives issued by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor provide a clear roadmap for enhancing fiscal performance and service delivery across different departments. From improving consumer base in essential sectors like Jal Shakti to ensuring prudent utilization of funds in healthcare and education, the instructions underscore a holistic approach towards governance and development.
Moreover, the emphasis on enhancing local procurement and incentivizing institutions to seek external funding reflects a forward-looking strategy to promote economic self-reliance and foster innovation in the region. By encouraging collaboration with central agencies and empowering local stakeholders, the administration aims to create a conducive environment for sustainable growth and prosperity.
It is also heartening to note the emphasis on accountability and transparency in financial management, as evidenced by the directive to expedite outstanding payments and address grievances promptly. Such measures not only instill confidence among stakeholders but also pave the way for efficient resource utilization and improved service delivery.