SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 14: A meeting on audit issues, financial compliance and pension matters concerning Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Kashmir Division, was organized by the Dy. Director, Local Fund Audit and Pensions, Kashmir under the chairpersonship of Neeraj Gupta Bakshi, Director General, Local Fund Audit and Pensions, J&K.
The meeting was attended by Syed Nadeem Iqbal, Deputy Director, Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir, Chief Executive Officers, Pay and Accounts Officers and Executive officers of Local Bodies of Kashmir division.
The meeting was convened to review financial management and compliance with prescribed rules and procedures in Urban Local Bodies, identify areas requiring improvement, and strengthen transparency, accountability and the efficient utilisation of public funds.
Emphasis was laid on the timely settlement of audit paras and submission of compliance reports. The officers concerned were advised to examine pending audit observations, take appropriate corrective measures and ensure compliance with applicable rules within the prescribed timelines.
Pension-related matters, including verification of service records, maintenance of service books and timely processing of pension cases, were also reviewed. The need to ensure complete documentation, resolving pending issues and facilitation of timely settlement of pension cases in accordance with the prescribed rules was highlighted.
Maheen Yasin, Deputy Director, Local Fund Audit and Pensions, Kashmir, presented key issues relating to financial administration, accounting practices, revenue realisation, procurement procedures and the execution of developmental works. The observations highlighted the need for greater attention to statutory compliance, systematic record maintenance and effective internal monitoring to ensure that public resources are utilised judiciously and in accordance with established norms.
Deputy Director, Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir, appreciated the initiative taken by the Organisation. He assured that all issues discussed during the meeting would be taken up at the Directorate level for issuance of necessary directions to subordinate offices to ensure compliance and timely implementation. He further informed that remedial measures, including the adoption of technology, had already been undertaken to ensure the smooth functioning of Municipalities.
The Director General, Local Fund Audit and Pensions, J&K, emphasised the need for strict financial discipline, improved compliance with prescribed rules, result-oriented and performance oriented approach towards addressing all issues. She further underscored the importance of strengthening revenue augmentation and monitoring mechanisms, improving need for coordination among the concerned departments and ensuring that public expenditure is supported by proper records and adequate verification.
The need to strengthen the capacity of officers and officials involved in financial administration was also highlighted by the Director General. She emphasised that the auditor is a friend and guide, and we need to closely develop and monitor best practices and share the same across the organisation to promote excellence and effective implementation of schemes.
