Will implement projects in J&K fast, Jaitley tells Parliament

Centre today promised in Parliament that it will speedily implement all the projects announced as part of special package to Jammu and Kashmir, a statement which assumes significance in the backdrop of ally PDP's demand for an assurance towards the development of the state.
"Prime Minister has announced special package for J&K. We want that the three regions of the J&K are developed very fast," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in reply to debate on Budget in the Lok Sabha.
"In the last 2-3 years we have sanctioned projects in different regions. Whatever projects we have announced, we would like those projects are implemented fast. Whatever commitment we have made we stand by them," he said.

The statement assumes significance as PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, who is seen as successor as Chief Minister to her late father Mufti Sayeed, has refused to make any move to form government without an assurance by the Modi government with regard to addressing the developmental challenges of the state.
Mehbooba had said last month that before taking a call on continuing the alliance, she wants to "reassess" whether the Narendra Modi government would take substantive steps within a 'set time-frame' to address the "core" political and economic issues of the state.
Since Mehbooba has not made any move to form the government, the state continues to be under Governor's Rule since January 8.

With regard to commitment made to other states, Jaitley said "whatever promises have been made with regard to Bihar, we will fulfill every commitment."
On Andhra Pradesh, he said the government gave more than about Rs 4,500 crore than what was committed to the state last year.
"Revenue deficit whatever recommended by Finance Commission has been provided for," he added.