J&K’s Governance Triumph: Four Initiatives Spotlighted

The dynamic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a governance renaissance, driven by transformative initiatives that have etched a lasting impact on the region. The inception of the “Back to Village” initiative was marked by a vision to re-establish a connection between government officials and the rural populace. What started as a program to bridge the gap between administration and grassroots levels has metamorphosed into the innovative “Aspirational Panchayat” model. This model, distinguished by a year-round oversight mechanism with designated Prabhari officials, signifies a paradigm shift in rural engagement. It fosters inclusive and sustainable growth while also empowering nearby communities. Beyond rhetoric, “Back to Village” has had a significant impact; in J&K, over 4000 completed projects have cost roughly Rs. 8110 lakhs. The program’s effectiveness in reaching the grassroots is demonstrated by the saturation coverage of 4291 Panchayats. However, obstacles continue to arise, requiring a thorough structure to document advancements in social programs such as the Jal Jeevan Mission. To support the program’s implementation and bring it into line with the Aspirational Panchayat Development Programme, there is also a demand for the development of training modules. The “Empowerment Portal,” designed as a platform providing citizens with detailed insights into ongoing projects, stands as a cornerstone in fostering citizen engagement. By enabling citizens to monitor and provide feedback on the quality and pace of work, the portal ensures transparency and accountability in governance. The success of Janbhagidari is evident in the substantial increase in the number of completed works — from about 9200 in 2018-19 to a staggering 50,000 in 2021-22. Furthermore, the reduced cost of execution by 20-30% underscores the efficiency gained through enhanced public oversight. Yet, the true potential of the Janbhagidari model lies in its ability to encourage local community involvement in decision-making processes. Strengthening the role of Panchayats by providing them with more decision-making powers and financial resources, coupled with regular channels for feedback, becomes imperative for the sustained success of this initiative.

In 2019, skepticism surrounded the Jammu and Kashmir Bank. However, subsequent years witnessed a spectacular rise, positioning it among the top four banks in the country for achieving targets in digital payments. The Bank’s annual net profit of Rs. 1197.38 Cr for FY 2022-23, marking a 139% YoY growth, is a testament to its digital transformation journey. With a total business of Rs. 212666 Crore as of March 31, 2023, and a growth rate of 9.40%, the bank has not only overcome doubts but has emerged as a financial powerhouse. The transformation of Jammu and Kashmir Bank underscores the importance of adaptability in the face of evolving financial landscapes. The success in digital payments is not merely a technological achievement but also reflects a shift in the financial behavior of the region, setting an example for other financial institutions. It emphasizes the need to embrace digitalization for sustained growth. As the first Union Territory in the country to ensure its entire population under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), Jammu and Kashmir has made significant strides in ensuring healthcare access for all. Covering approximately 26 lakh beneficiaries, with 81 percent of beneficiary families possessing at least one e-card in AB-PMJAY, the impact on public health is substantial. The success of AB-PMJAY is not only measured in numbers but also in the efficient redressal of grievances through the Jammu & Kashmir – Integrated Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (JKIGRAMS). With 100 percent grievance redressal and a fine of Rs. 45 lakhs collected through the Anti-Fraud mechanism, the initiative stands as a beacon for effective healthcare management.

In short, the transformative initiatives undertaken by the administration in Jammu and Kashmir reflect a commendable commitment to inclusive development, transparency, and technological advancement. The success stories of “Back to Village,” the “Empowerment Portal,” Jammu and Kashmir Bank’s digital transformation, and the healthcare access initiatives are beacons of effective governance, setting a positive precedent for other regions. As we applaud these achievements, it is crucial to acknowledge that the journey towards progress is ongoing. Continuous innovation, adaptability, and community involvement remain paramount. The administration should persist in refining these initiatives, addressing challenges, and ensuring sustained positive impacts. Encouraging further collaboration with local communities, enhancing training modules, and leveraging technological advancements for comprehensive governance will fortify the foundation laid by these initiatives, fostering a brighter and more resilient future for Jammu and Kashmir.