Srinagar, Feb 09: Peoples Democratic Party MLA Waheed-Ur–Rehman Para on Monday questioned the government’s ability to translate massive allocations into real development on the ground.
Para acknowledged that Jammu & Kashmir is passing through unprecedented times and that the National Conference-led government is facing immense challenges.
Questioning poor utilisation of funds, Para pointed out that last year’s budget stood at nearly Rs 1.40 lakh crore, yet only about 12 percent had reportedly been spent. “If almost 90 percent of the previous year’s budget remains unutilised, will the government spend it in one month now? “he questioned.
He further revealed that more than 100 projects across crucial departments such as agriculture, horticulture, health and education recorded zero expenditure over the year. “Funds are being allocated, but nothing is happening on the ground. Either there are serious institutional failures or the government lacks capacity. If utilisation is not ensured, allocations become meaningless,” Para said.
Para said that drug abuse is rapidly increasing across Jammu and Kashmir but is not being treated with the seriousness it deserves. “This is destroying our youth, our families and our future, yet there is no focused strategy or urgency from the government,” he said.
Para also described cancer as a “silent pandemic” in the region, claiming that more people are now dying due to cancer than violence. “Despite alarming numbers, there is hardly any focused intervention. The government must appeal to the Prime Minister for a dedicated cancer hospital in Jammu and Kashmir so families are not forced to sell assets and travel outside the region for treatment,” he said.
Para said that nearly 75 B.Ed colleges had gone defunct in the last one year. “These institutions functioned even during the peak of militancy, yet today they are being shut down. The government should have taken this up with the HRD Ministry to save these colleges and students’ futures,” he said—(KNO)
