Raja Syed Rather
Srinagar, Mar 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to allocate Rs 3 crore annually for each Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) scheme.
This decision will enable MLAs to recommend and oversee the implementation of key development projects in their constituencies.
The funds will be used to support infrastructure development, public welfare projects, and essential services, with a clear focus on ensuring the timely completion of all approved works.
The Finance Department has issued a detailed circular outlining the guidelines for the implementation of the CDF scheme. Under these guidelines, each MLA can propose development works worth up to Rs 3 crore (Rs 300 lakh) annually to the District Development Commissioner (DDC) for execution in their constituency.
Additionally, nominated MLAs have the flexibility to recommend projects in any part of the Union Territory.
The allocated funds are specifically designed for capital expenditure and cannot be used for revenue-related expenses, creation of posts, or payment of salaries. This ensures that the funds are spent on tangible developmental works.
Projects under the CDF must be completed within one year. In areas with limited working seasons, such as high-altitude regions, the DDC, with the MLA’s approval, may extend the timeline, allowing work to be completed within two working seasons, but not exceeding two years.
The scheme encourages MLAs to recommend projects with costs not exceeding ₹10 lakh per work, although higher-value projects may be considered for certain infrastructure investments, provided they are completed within the specified time.
A wide range of development activities will be supported, including the construction and upgradation of government buildings such as schools, hostels, libraries, and sanitation facilities, as well as the provision of computers for educational institutions. The fund will also support the construction of roads, irrigation facilities, power infrastructure, and housing upgrades for the underprivileged.
The government aims to make a significant impact on the local infrastructure by allowing projects such as: Construction and upgradation of roads, including approach roads and link roads, with funding upto Rs 15 lakh. Projects for water table recharging, irrigation, and drainage, with support up to Rs 20 lakh.
Strengthening power infrastructure with a budget of up to Rs 50 lakh.
Assistance for housing upgrades for tribal and BPL populations, with funding of up to Rs 20 lakh for each project.
This initiative also focuses on improving rural areas by allowing the creation of kachha roads where local needs dictate.
To ensure proper utilization of funds, the scheme, includes provisions for strict oversight. Payments for completed works will be made only after the necessary verification and the successful completion of a Defect Liability Period (DLP), if applicable.
The scheme, also emphasizes the importance of efficiency, requiring that at least 80% of the allocated funds be utilized within the financial year.
In cases where the prescribed threshold is not met, funds will be withheld until the target is achieved, and future allocations will be contingent upon meeting these goals.
Certain projects will not be eligible for funding under the CDF, including office or residential buildings for government departments, memorials, creation of posts, or any kind of revenue expenditure. The funds will not be used for works related to places of worship either.
By giving MLAs the autonomy to choose projects and ensuring proper monitoring, the CDF scheme aims to foster a more localized and responsive approach to development. This initiative represents a significant step forward in empowering elected representatives to directly contribute to the growth and well-being of their constituencies.
