J&K’s Peace and Security Fortified with INR 16,000 Crore Funding

The Central Government steps up its support to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, with a massive INR 16,000 Crore infusion for strengthening security and rehabilitation initiatives.

By Irfan Bashir

In a significant financial development, an official report from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) unveiled that a substantial sum of INR 16,000 Crore has been disbursed by the Central Government to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This allocation falls under the categories of Security Related Expenditure for the police (SRE-P) and Security Related Expenditure for Relief and Rehabilitation (SRE-R&R). The annual report of the MHA for the fiscal year 2022-23 sheds light on this substantial financial support and highlights the multifaceted assistance provided to the region by the Central Government. J&K’s Peace and Security Fortified with INR 16,000 Crore Funding

The MHA’s annual report for the year 2022-23 underscores the commitment of the Central Government to bolster the administration of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This has been realized through the consistent deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) when necessary and ongoing support to strengthen the local police force. The report emphasizes the crucial role of the Ministry of Home Affairs in reimbursing the expenses incurred by the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir across a range of security-related measures.

The comprehensive list of expenses covered by the Ministry’s reimbursement program includes costs related to constabulary transport, material supplies, rent for accommodation, honorarium for Special Police Officers (SPOs), Civic Action Programs, air-lift charges, the establishment of India Reserve Battalions, transportation, boarding and lodging, and the provision of alternate accommodations for security forces. According to the report, the total amount reimbursed to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir under Security Related Expenditure (Police) from 1989 to December 31, 2022, stands at a substantial INR 10,528.72 Crore. Additionally, Security Related Expenditure for Relief and Rehabilitation (SRE-R&R) has received INR 5,348.68 Crore during the same period.

The report also discloses that during the current fiscal year, 2022-23, INR 308.98 Crore has been reimbursed to the Jammu and Kashmir Government under the Security Related Expenditure for Police (SRE-P). A further INR 198.62 Crore has been reimbursed under Security Related Expenditure for Relief and Rehabilitation (SRE-R&R) until December 31, 2022. These figures underline the consistent financial backing provided by the Central Government to address the security-related challenges in the region.

Another noteworthy point highlighted in the report is the release of INR 2.51 Crore during the financial year 2022-23 (up to December 31, 2022) under the Security Related Expenditure (Security Environment) Scheme. This allocation is crucial for maintaining a stable and secure environment in the Union Territory.

The report underscores the unique challenges faced by the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to the presence of “serious militancy.” In light of this, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir is compelled to incur additional expenses to maintain peace and tranquility in the region. To address these challenges, a dedicated Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme was introduced in 1989-90. This scheme offers 90% and 100% reimbursement of expenditures, respectively, under two categories: SRE (Police) to support the logistical requirements of the local police force in combating militancy and SRE Relief & Rehabilitation for the relief and rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants displaced during the militancy period, in addition to other related relief and rehabilitation measures.

The significant financial allocation of INR 16,000 Crore by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs underlines the Central Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in addressing its unique security-related challenges. This funding not only aids in enhancing the capabilities of the local police but also provides vital resources for relief and rehabilitation efforts, contributing to the overall peace and stability of the region.