LG Sinha directs Govt departments to meet revenue targets

Srinagar, Mar 10: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has issued directives to various administrative departments, emphasizing the need to meet committed revenue targets and efficiently utilize unspent funds in anticipation of the upcoming SPARSH system implementation.
As per the minutes of the meeting, during a recent review meeting on the progress of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs) in the 2023-24 financial year, LG Sinha specifically instructed the Power Development Department (PDD) to achieve its revenue targets committed with the Ministry of Finance. This includes completing smart metering works, expediting loss reduction efforts, and meeting power revenue goals.

Additionally, Sinha highlighted the urgency of spending or investing the substantial unspent balance of over Rs 3,000 crore lying in various Single Nodal Agency (SNA) accounts of CSSs. This directive comes as the Central government prepares to transition to the new SPARSH (System for Pension Administration and Rationalization of Spending for Hassle-free Fund Transfer) system during the 2024-25 financial year.
SPARSH is an alternative fund flow mechanism that integrates the Public Financial Management System (PFMS), state/UT Integrated Financial Management and Information System (IFMIS), and the Reserve Bank of India’s e-kuber platform for efficient CSS fund transfers.
The LG emphasized the favourable sharing pattern of CSSs for the Union Territory and urged all Secretaries and Heads of Departments to accelerate CSS implementation, submit Utilization Certificates promptly, and increase harnessing of CSS funds through close monitoring and follow-up with Central ministries.
Furthermore, Sinha stressed the need for developing a coordinated system to ensure the minimum prescribed procurement from local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) or Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on the Government e-marketplace (GeM) portal.
Principal Secretary Finance highlighted the positive surge in revenue realization through user charges across various departments, including the PDD’s revenue of Rs 306,600 lakh by January 31, 2024, compared to Rs 362,297 lakh in 2022-23 and Rs 222,932 lakh in 2018-19. However, the Principal Secretary also emphasized the need for departments to calibrate user fees for proper cost recovery and achieve revenue targets.
The Chief Secretary acknowledged the visible improvement in capital expenditure but advised Administrative Secretaries to resolve issues about CSSs with respective Central ministries and emphasized the importance of improving power tariff collection, reducing losses, and reaching metering targets.