Jammu and Kashmir Budget 2024-25: Boosting Security with Over Rs 1,200 Crore Allocation

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced that the upcoming financial year will see a significant investment of over Rs 1,200 crore for security-related activities, including the construction of 42 new border police posts. This allocation aims to strengthen the anti-infiltration grid and enhance border security.

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Key Features of the Interim Budget

During a media briefing, Lt. Governor Sinha highlighted the key features of the recently passed interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, which amounts to over Rs 1.18 lakh crore. The budget emphasizes several crucial areas, including security, infrastructure development, agriculture, tourism, and social welfare.

Security-Related Allocations

Under the security-related budget, Rs 1,284.45 crore has been allocated for various initiatives. This includes the construction of 1,218 community and individual underground bunkers for border residents, installation of CCTV cameras with command-and-control centers in public places, improvement of facilities in police stations and housing complexes, and implementation of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) Project.

Focus Areas for Budget Spending

The budget focuses on several key areas, including good governance, strengthening grass-root democracy, promoting sustainable agriculture, attracting investments, generating employment, developing new tourism destinations, accelerating development, ensuring inclusive growth, empowering women, and fostering social inclusion.

E-Governance Initiatives

The administration plans to expand e-governance initiatives in the upcoming year. This includes extending e-office in all offices and panchayats, fully implementing the PM Gati Shakti program, and utilizing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the internet of things (IoT) to enhance service delivery to citizens.

Sector-Wise Budget Allocations

The budget allocates funds to various sectors, including Rs 5,038 crore for water supply and irrigation, Rs 3,730.83 crore for rural development and panchayati raj, Rs 2,029.95 crore for agriculture and allied sectors, Rs 1,427.61 crore for health and wellness, Rs 1,875 crore for the power sector, and Rs 469.20 crore for tourism and culture.

Additionally, Rs 1,300.10 crore has been allocated to the education department, Rs 2,329.55 crore to housing and urban development, Rs 4,108.87 crore to connectivity roads and bridges, and Rs 529.62 crore for industrial development.

The Jammu and Kashmir government's interim Budget for 2024-25 reflects a commitment to strengthening security, promoting development, and improving the lives of citizens. By focusing on key sectors and implementing innovative initiatives, the administration aims to drive progress and ensure the well-being of the people in the region.