The abrogation of Article 370 ended the era of nepotism.

Srinagar. The highest ever funds have been consumed under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) in Jammu and Kashmir. This information has come to the fore in the recently ended financial year. According to a report, in 2021-22, the total amount received by the Union Territory under CSS was Rs 7,655 crore, which was increased to Rs 8,938 crore during 2022-23, an increase of about 15 per cent. Notably, the benefits of centrally sponsored schemes are reaching the last man in the queue after August 5, 2019 – when the Center announced its decision to abrogate the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

This is the first time in nearly 70 years that nearly Rs 9,000 crore has reached the common man without any middlemen and brokers as digital transactions have ensured that no third party comes between the government and the people.

The report said, ‘After 2019, the effective system has ensured accountability and transparency. The money that is being given to the people of Jammu and Kashmir is not just for a selected section of the society. With the abrogation of Article 370, the era of nepotism has come to an end.

The report further states, “From achieving less than expected success in 1947 to 2019 to the status of a strong contender, Jammu and Kashmir, which accounts for one percent of India’s population, received 10 percent of taxpayers’ money, despite The state’s economy remained fragile.

The Administration has ensured that flagship schemes under the CSS mechanism are given due attention. Regular evaluation meetings are being held to ensure that the basic objectives of such schemes and social objectives are being achieved through them. It has been said in the report, ‘The guidelines set by the Central Government are being followed for the implementation of these schemes.’

According to officials, in the financial year 2022-23, employment was created for 2,63,595 people in Jammu and Kashmir under various schemes. The overall performance of Jammu and Kashmir under various parameters recording development and progress has improved significantly during the last three years.

“Schemes under which employment opportunities have been created include: 1,67,932 employment opportunities under Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Program (PMEGP), 35,564 under Mission Youth, Jammu and Kashmir State Rural Livelihoods Mission,” the report said. Mission (JKRLM) 34,200, J&K Women Development Corporation 8,457, Handicrafts and Handloom Sector 5,331, Himayat 2,818, Sheep Husbandry 2,818, SC/ST/OBC Corporation 2,193, National Urban Livelihood Apart from 1576 under the mission and under dozens of other different sectors, 2668 employment opportunities were found under agricultural production and animal husbandry.