Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 20: Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday directed officials to prioritise the expansion of social security coverage and improve revenue collection efforts, warning that continued delays could lead to budget cuts across departments.

Chairing a high-level review meeting, Abdullah examined the status of financial inclusion schemes, tax and non-tax revenue performance, district Capex implementation, and Constituency Development Fund (CDF) works. Stressing the need for monthly monitoring, he criticised the practice of waiting until the last quarter to chase financial targets.

“Departments must start working on revenue realisation today, with a clear monthly plan,” he said, directing the Finance Department to issue detailed six-month targets to each department and Deputy Commissioner.

The Chief Minister voiced concern over declining enrolment in central welfare schemes such as PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), and asked DCs to identify reasons behind the drop. He also urged faster finalisation and uploading of CDF projects on the BEAMS portal and reminded officials to inform MLAs about the viability of suggested projects.

Emphasising the need for faster approvals and execution of Capex works, Abdullah warned that departments failing to meet targets could face spending restrictions. “The responsibility lies with each department,” he said.

While schemes like PMJDY and PMSBY have seen steady growth — crossing 23 lakh and 23.8 lakh account holders respectively — the CM noted that active participation in welfare programs like those under the Building & Other Construction Workers Board remains inadequate, despite over Rs 166 crore being disbursed this year.

Abdullah concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to inclusive development and fiscal discipline, instructing officials to improve awareness, coordination, and accountability across all districts.