Centre releases Rs 196 crore for JK

The Union Finance Ministry has released an amount of Rs 196 crore for Jammu and Kashmir as part of the second installment of the state's share in central taxes and duties.
"After vigorous pursuit with the Union Finance Ministry, the Centre has released Rs 196 crore to Jammu and Kashmir, which is the second installment of its share in central taxes and duties. This is expected to further ease the extremely strained liquidity position of the state government," a Raj Bhawan spokesman said.
The spokesman said the state finance department has also received Rs 170 crore under special plan assistance (SPA).

This assistance will enable the state government to continue various development projects and clear bills pending in the government treasuries.
He said Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra was informed about this development after a meeting with the Principal Secretary of Finance B B Vyas.
The Governor was also informed about the release of the second installment of Rs 45 crore for maintenance of roads and bridges under the 13th Finance Commission award.
He said the Centre has also agreed to advance position of the last installment of special central assistance, which is expected to be received early next week.