Jammu, Mar 26 : The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet is meeting here on Thursday in Jammu to take up a series of significant administrative and legislative matters ahead of the resumption of the budget session of the Legislature.
Sources told news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC that one of the major items on the agenda is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Central Government for the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission Phase-II (JJM-II).
The UT Government is seeking ₹1500 crore under the scheme, however, the Centre has made it clear that funds will be released only after the MoU is signed and certain conditions are fulfilled.
As per the proposal, JJM Phase-II will include two components new schemes and retrofitting. While central assistance will be available for new schemes, the cost of retrofitting will be borne by the UT Government. The Centre has also laid down conditions including creation of Sujal Gaon ID, reconciliation of funds, and formal signing of the MoU, after which the UT will become eligible for financial assistance.
The Cabinet is also expected to consider and approve a number of government bills likely to be introduced in the ongoing budget session. Among them is a proposal for establishment of private universities in Jammu and Kashmir, a move aimed at strengthening the higher education sector and attracting investment in education.
Sources said the Cabinet may also deliberate on the government’s response to various private members’ bills and resolutions, including those related to issues like ban on liquor and tobacco and regularisation of daily wagers.
The government has already indicated that the process of regularisation of daily wagers is expected to begin this year.
In addition, administrative matters including promotions and transfers of JKAS officers are also likely to be discussed during the meeting.
The budget session of the Legislature is scheduled to resume on March 27 and will continue till April 4, with key business including passage of the Appropriation Bill lined up. All decisions taken by the Cabinet will be subject to the approval of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. (KNC)
