MLA Budgam Flags Delay in REGP Subsidies, Seeks Review of Reservation Policy | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: MLA Budgam, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi on Wednesday raised the issue of pending subsidies under the Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP) and broader concerns related to unemployment in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.

During his address, Mehdi called for the constitution of a House committee to examine the reservation policy in coordination with the Government of India, aiming for an early resolution. He stated that the existing reservation framework excludes a significant section of the population, thereby restricting employment opportunities across the Union Territory.

He also drew attention to the delay in disbursal of REGP subsidies, which he said have been pending for the past three years, and urged the government to expedite the process. Mehdi further demanded an audit of loan-based subsidies to assess how much of the debt has been converted into income, stressing the need for transparency and proper monitoring.

Mehdi said the REGP subsidy, similar to the Youth Scheme, has remained unpaid for three years and questioned the reasons behind the delay. He noted that no audit has been conducted so far and said the Assembly should be updated on the status of loan-linked subsidies.

Addressing unemployment, he maintained that the present reservation system leaves many sections without adequate support. He added that the Chief Minister has taken up the matter and forwarded the file to Delhi for consideration.

Mehdi urged the House to ensure early release of pending subsidies, conduct necessary audits, and take steps to address unemployment concerns.