The report by the Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, revealing over Rs 1,100 crore of unspent funds under various rural development schemes in Jammu and Kashmir, is a stark reminder of the systemic inefficiencies that hinder progress. This underutilisation of resources not only delays the benefits of these schemes but also undermines the trust of rural communities in governance. At a time when the socio-economic upliftment of marginalised sections is a priority, such lapses demand urgent redressal.
The schemes analysed by the Parliamentary Panel, including the MGNREGS, PMAY-G, and PMGSY, among others, are critical to addressing rural poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure gaps. Yet, the unspent balances reported are alarmingly high. Rs 378.72 crore remains unspent under PMGSY, Rs 447.37 crore under PMAY-G, and Rs 238.98 crore under Deendayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY). Even the flagship MGNREGS, which guarantees wage employment, has an unspent balance of Rs 18.93 crore alongside a material liability of Rs 42.90 crore. This inefficiency is compounded by the irregularity of District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meetings. These committees are mandated to ensure proper monitoring and coordination of rural development projects. Despite their significance, DISHA meetings are being held sporadically in J&K. In the last financial year, only eight such meetings were convened across 20 districts. This dismal record highlights a lack of accountability and coordination among stakeholders.
The implications of these unspent funds and irregular monitoring are far-reaching. Rural development schemes are designed to address critical issues like housing, employment, road connectivity, and skill development. PMAY-G aims to provide pucca houses to rural households, a crucial step toward improving living standards. Similarly, MGNREGS plays a vital role in providing employment and creating durable assets. When funds remain unutilised, the intended beneficiaries are deprived of these opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and underdevelopment. Moreover, the underutilisation of funds raises questions about the administrative capacity and intent of implementing agencies. It indicates a lack of planning, delays in project execution, and possibly bureaucratic red tape.
The recurring issue of unspent funds necessitates a multi-pronged approach to strengthen accountability and improve fund utilisation. First and foremost, the role of DISHA committees must be reinforced. Regular and well-attended meetings, as mandated by guidelines, are essential to monitor progress, identify bottlenecks, and ensure inter-departmental coordination. Senior-level representatives from concerned departments should be held accountable for their presence and participation in these meetings. Timely disbursal of funds, reducing bureaucratic delays, and leveraging technology for real-time monitoring of projects are other aspects to be looked into. The Public Financial Management System can play a pivotal role in tracking fund utilisation and identifying areas requiring intervention.
Beyond administrative reforms, addressing the root causes of fund underutilisation is crucial. Lack of technical expertise, inadequate human resources, and procedural complexities often hinder the effective implementation of schemes. Capacity-building initiatives for local officials and grassroots workers can bridge these gaps. J&K can emulate models from states and UTs that have demonstrated exemplary performance in implementing rural development schemes. By adopting best practices such as decentralised planning, robust grievance redressal mechanisms, and innovative use of technology, J&K can overcome its challenges and accelerate progress. The underutilisation of over Rs 1,100 crore in rural development schemes is a wake-up call for the administration in J&K. It underscores the need for a more proactive approach to governance, focussing on accountability, transparency, and efficiency.
The Parliamentary Panel’s recommendations must be taken seriously, and actionable steps should be implemented without delay. Development is not just about allocating funds; it is about ensuring that these resources reach the intended beneficiaries and create tangible improvements in their lives. For J&K, where rural development is critical to fostering peace and prosperity, effectively utilising funds under schemes like MGNREGS, PMAY-G, and PMGSY is non-negotiable. It is time for the administration to rise to the occasion and deliver on its promises to the rural poor.
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