SRINAGAR, Oct 15 (KNC): The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is scheduled to meet today in Srinagar to deliberate on several key administrative and legislative reforms ahead of the upcoming Assembly Session 2025.
According to official sources, the Cabinet meeting will take place at 4 PM at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, where multiple proposals aimed at improving governance, empowering local representatives, and boosting public welfare are on the agenda.
₹1 Crore Hike Proposed in MLA Development Fund
One of the major proposals likely to be approved today is an increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from ₹3 crore to ₹4 crore per annum.
The hike, if approved, would mark the first revision since 2018 and is being seen as a step to strengthen grassroots development and enable MLAs to address constituency-level needs more effectively.
During the Budget Session earlier this year, several legislators had urged the government to raise the CDF ceiling, highlighting inflation and growing local demands. Responding to this, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the Finance, Planning, Development, and Monitoring portfolios, had assured the House that the proposal would be examined in detail.
Officials said the proposed hike aligns with the government’s broader goal to empower local governance and ensure equitable development across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Major Welfare Reform: Marriage Assistance Scheme Relaxation
Another key reform likely to be approved today involves the State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS). The Cabinet is expected to remove the “Middle Pass” qualification requirement that currently restricts poor girls from availing financial assistance under the scheme.
The move aims to expand the scheme’s reach to more underprivileged families, ensuring that financial aid is provided based on economic need rather than educational background.
Boost for Infrastructure and Tourism: Gulmarg Sewerage Project
The Cabinet will also discuss a major infrastructure project — a ₹45.80 crore sewerage scheme for Gulmarg.
The project, once cleared, will significantly improve sanitation and waste management in the hill resort, which witnesses heavy tourist footfall year-round.
Officials believe the initiative will enhance Gulmarg’s tourism potential and promote sustainable eco-friendly development.
E-Auctioning of Limestone Blocks
In a move to ensure transparency and maximize revenue, the government is expected to approve the e-auctioning of limestone mineral blocks across Jammu and Kashmir.
This policy shift aligns with the UT administration’s digital governance initiatives and aims to curb manual allotment irregularities while ensuring fair competition among bidders.
Legislative Business Ahead of Assembly Session 2025
The meeting will also finalize several legislative proposals slated for introduction during the upcoming Assembly Session beginning October 23 in Srinagar.
Among the key bills are:
- Jammu and Kashmir Shops and Establishments Bill, 2025 – aimed at modernizing labor and commercial regulations.
- Amendments to the JK Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 – to align the UT’s taxation framework with national GST policies and improve compliance.
These legislative updates are expected to streamline business operations, improve investor confidence, and enhance fiscal discipline in the Union Territory.
Administrative and Environmental Decisions
The Cabinet is also likely to discuss:
- Reorganization of Town Planning Organizations in Jammu and Kashmir for better urban planning.
- Transfer of 391 kanals and 6 marlas of state land to the Forest Department for compensatory afforestation.
- Upgradation of posts in the Department of Floriculture, Gardens, and Parks to enhance tourism-linked employment.
Additionally, the Cabinet may approve the creation of a supernumerary post of Lecturer in Surgery at the Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, ensuring that medical education and patient care remain unaffected by staff shortages.
Focus on Heritage and Skills
To preserve traditional arts and promote skill development, the Cabinet is expected to continue Heritage Craft Courses in 15 Government ITIs and Polytechnic Colleges across Jammu and Kashmir.
The initiative, officials said, would help revive dying crafts, support local artisans, and generate employment opportunities for youth.
Final Approval from the Lieutenant Governor
All Cabinet decisions taken today will be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor for formal approval, as per the current administrative framework of Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting is viewed as one of the most significant Cabinet sessions of the year, setting the stage for major developmental and legislative milestones in the region.
Source: KNC (Kashmir News Channel)