SRINAGAR: The government has finally introduced fresh guidelines for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), allowing each MLA to recommend developmental works worth Rs 3 crore annually in their constituencies, official sources said.
The move comes as the 90 newly elected legislators faced growing demands from their constituents for developmental projects but lacked fund allocations until now. The new guidelines, cleared by the cabinet, aim to streamline the utilisation of funds and prioritise pressing community projects.
An order issued by Principal Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Finance Department, Santosh D Vaidya, confirmed the immediate implementation of the scheme following a decision taken by the Council of Ministers on March 3, 2025.
Under the revised rules, MLAs can recommend projects up to Rs 3 crore per year to the respective district development commissioner, while the five nominated members of the Assembly are allowed to propose works across the Union Territory. The funds are designated for creating public assets in key sectors such as drinking water, roads, education, healthcare, sanitation, and tourism. However, they cannot be used for salaries, land acquisition, religious sites, or administrative expenses. Additionally, most projects must not exceed Rs 10 lakh, with certain exceptions.
Despite welcoming the initiative, many legislators believe the allocation is lower than what their counterparts in other parts of the country receive, and they have raised concerns over spending restrictions.
To ensure timely execution, the new guidelines mandate that district authorities clear recommended works within 45 days. Furthermore, all projects must be completed within a year, with a provision allowing up to two years for work in hilly areas.
