The visit of the Union Home Secretary to J&K underscores the Centre’s commitment to ensuring the direct reach of Centrally Sponsored Schemes to the common people in the UT. His message to the Commissioner/Secretaries of J&K-to eliminate delays and focus on achieving tangible benefits for the last person in the queue-is both timely and imperative. CSS like ‘One Nation, One Ration Card,’ PM Mudra Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, and Bharat Jal Jeevan Mission hold transformative potential for the people of J&K. However, their success depends on effective implementation, robust monitoring, and the elimination of bureaucratic bottlenecks. The feedback sought during the meeting on the progress of flagship initiatives and employment-driven projects highlights the need for a results-orientated approach to governance.
The Union Home Secretary’s directive to avoid delays is crucial. J&K has witnessed a history of developmental lags, often exacerbated by the challenges of geography, political instability, and logistical hurdles. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted strategy-one that combines efficient use of technology, grassroots-level participation, and a transparent grievance redressal mechanism. Initiatives like broadband connectivity and the Smart City Mission have the potential to enhance digital infrastructure and urban development, but their benefits must reach rural and marginalised communities to ensure equitable progress. Equally noteworthy is the Home Secretary’s emphasis on achieving a ‘terror-free Jammu and Kashmir.’ Security and development are two sides of the same coin; the former provides the environment for the latter to thrive. The Government’s commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism, combined with sustained efforts to create economic opportunities, has yielded the desired results. Development projects, when implemented effectively, can act as a deterrent to extremist influences by addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities. The symbolism of Union Home Secretary’s visit to Lal Chowk and Balidan Stumb further reinforces the narrative of integration and progress. These locations serve as reminders of the sacrifices made for peace and the aspirations of a resilient population yearning for stability and prosperity. As the UT strides towards peace and development, the implementation of these central schemes reflects an unwavering commitment to improving lives.