Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to allocate 3 crore rupees annually for each Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) scheme. This decision will enable MLAs to recommend and oversee the implementation of key development projects in their constituencies. The funds will be used to support infrastructure development, public welfare projects, and essential services, with a clear focus on ensuring the timely completion of all approved works.
The Finance Department has issued a detailed circular outlining the guidelines for the implementation of the CDF scheme. Under these guidelines, each MLA can propose development works worth up to ₹3 crore annually to the District Development Commissioner (DDC) for execution in their constituency. Additionally, nominated MLAs have the flexibility to recommend projects in any part of the Union Territory. Projects under the CDF must be completed within one year. In areas with limited working seasons, such as high-altitude regions, the DDC, with the MLA’s approval, may extend the timeline, allowing work to be completed within two working seasons, but not exceeding two years.
The scheme encourages MLAs to recommend projects with costs not exceeding ₹10 lakh per work, although higher-value projects may be considered for certain infrastructure investments, provided they are completed within the specified time. The fund will also support the construction of roads, irrigation facilities, power infrastructure, and housing upgrades for the underprivileged. Certain projects will not be eligible for funding under the CDF, including office or residential buildings for government departments, memorials, creation of posts, or any kind of revenue expenditure. The funds will not be used for works related to places of worship either.
