J&K decentralises financial powers to expedite project execution

The government of Jammu and Kashmir is a bit like a big school with many managers.

Before, when someone wanted to build something like a road or a school, they often had to ask very high-up leaders for permission.

That could take a long time.

Now, the government has said that more of its officials can say yes to spending money.

Different officials can approve different amounts of money depending on their job.

Small projects can be approved by lower-level officers.

Big projects still need to be checked by the top government leaders.

The new rule also covers paying for repairs and giving contracts to companies.

The government hopes this makes work happen faster, like letting teachers approve small classroom supplies while the principal approves the big things.

These new rules replace older ones from January 2020.