J&K left to raise Rs 2354 crore for retrofitting schemes
Srinagar, Oct 10: The change in funding norms under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) has left Jammu & Kashmir with a major financial challenge, as the Union Territory will have to arrange Rs 2354 crore to complete 1426 retrofitting schemes.
Under the framework of JJM‑2, retrofitting projects – schemes taken up for improvement and upgradation of water supply systems built before the launch of the Mission -will no longer receive central assistance, compelling the UT to mobilize resources on its own. “For retrofitting schemes numbering 1,426, balance cost of Rs 2354 crore is required. Jal Shakti Department (JSD) can complete all the schemes during the current financial year if funds are made available,” documents accessed by news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) state.
Under Jal Jeevan Mission‑1, retrofitting schemes were centrally funded with a 90:10 cost‑sharing pattern for Jammu & Kashmir (90% central share, 10% UT share). Retrofitting schemes involve the upgradation and improvement of existing water supply systems that were built before the launch of the Mission.
According to documents, the Jal Shakti Department has repeatedly approached the Finance Department since September 2025, and again under Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) in March 2026, seeking absorption of funds likely to be surrendered under SASCI.
This year, the department requested augmentation of the UT Capex and suggested provision of Rs 500 crore within the approved allocation of the PHE sector by reducing the UT (CSS) share, citing reduced requirement therein.
The Finance Department, however, advised waiting for the outcome of the House Committee’s investigation report. The House Committee initially conveyed it was finalizing its report, but later declared itself functus officio-meaning it had ceased to hold authority-after its term expired on May 31, 2026.
In August 2026, JSD again proposed allocation of Rs 1700 crore under SASCI, but no releases have been made so far. (KNO)
