Finalise scheme for flood-hit traders by Feb 21: J&K Governer

Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra has directed chief secretary B R Sharma to finalise a relief scheme by February 21 for traders and small business establishments hit by floods last year.

The Governor directed Sharma to finalise the scheme for interest subvention for restoration of livelihoods for traders, self-employed and business establishments by February 21, a spokesman said.

Vohra reviewed relief being provided to the flood-affected traders and small business enterprises in the state at a meeting held at Raj Bhawan here on Saturday.

The reconstruction plan for Jammu and Kashmir announced by the Prime Minister on November 7 last year includes a provision of Rs 800 crore as central assistance for interest subvention on the support provided for the restoration of livelihoods for traders, self-employed and business establishments, he said.

The State-Level Bankers' Committee had earlier approved restructuring of loans of traders and small businesses affected by floods with an extended moratorium period for repayment, he added.

The Governor also directed that the proposal for disbursement of assistance for completely damaged, severely damaged and partially damaged houses, approximately 73,000 kutcha houses and 1,58,000 pucca houses, for which a central assistance of Rs 1,194 crore was released under the PM's reconstruction plan be also finalised urgently and brought up before the State Administrative Council for approval.