How Much Did J&K And Ladakh Get In Union Budget 2024?

Jammu and Kashmir has been allocated Rs 42,277.74 crore in the Union Budget 2024, reflecting a 1.2 per cent increase from the previous year. Ladakh, on the other hand, has received Rs 5,958 crore, marking a significant 32% increase from last year's Rs 4,500 crore.

The budget includes a special central assistance of Rs 17,000 crore for Jammu and Kashmir. "The Union government will cover the salary, pension, and other costs of Jammu and Kashmir Police, with an allocation of Rs 12,000 crore. An additional Rs 5,000 crore lump sum grant is also provided this financial year," a J&K government spokesperson told Hindustan Times. This special package aims to reduce J&K's fiscal deficit to GDP ratio to 3% for the 2024-25 financial year.

"This special package is part of the total central assistance of Rs 67,133 crore for 2024-25. This unprecedented support will greatly enhance fiscal stability, allowing the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to address developmental needs and maintain fiscal health," the spokesperson added.

The budget also plans to develop 12 new off-beat tourist destinations, with six each in the Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

For Ladakh, which was separated from Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Rs 2,035.49 crore has been allocated for the Centre's establishment expenses, including secretariat costs and the setup of various departments and offices.

Also, Rs 3,922.51 crore is allocated for Central sector expenditures in Ladakh, covering agriculture, water supply and sanitation, rural development, power, forestry and wildlife, medical and public health, and education, among other sectors.