Technical experts involved in the implementation of “Housing for All” (HSA) under the Central Government’s flagship programme, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), have been grappling with the absence of salaries for the past eight months. The PMAY stands as a pinnacle among the Government’s flagship initiatives, envisioning the construction of over two crore houses to alleviate the plight of the homeless and impoverished. In Jammu and Kashmir, an assembly of approximately 68 adept professionals, ranging from project engineers and town planners to GIS specialists and training coordinators, form the dedicated team relentlessly striving to realise the aspirations of UT residents. These individuals, far from being mere labourers, have forsaken lucrative positions elsewhere, propelled by an unwavering love and dedication to contribute to the advancement of their homeland. However, amidst the laudable efforts, a disconcerting discord emerges, as certain officials seem out of touch with the evolving work culture in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Astonishingly, these technocrats have been labouring without remuneration for an alarming period of eight months and counting. Notwithstanding this grave injustice, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir garnered the prestigious accolade for the exemplary implementation of PMAY-Urban at the “India Urban Housing Conclave 2022,” a testament to the relentless toil of these professionals.
The dream of housing for all propels these technocrats, yet they find themselves remunerated with meagre salaries, juggling responsibilities across three to four designated towns. The absence of travel allowances exacerbates their plight, with allegations surfacing that they bear the financial burden of stationery expenses from their own pockets. Despite operating under the purview of the Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board, a puzzling veil shrouds the reasons behind the inexplicable eight-month delay in salary disbursement. Perturbing whispers of a substantial gap between the proposed and current salary structures linger, necessitating urgent scrutiny and rectification by the administration. Administrative officials are implored to comprehend the gravity of their responsibilities, with an anticipatory expectation for a swift and equitable resolution to this pressing issue.
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