Jammu, Nov 2 (KNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday asked his Ministers to review the progress of commitments made in the last Budget and the government's election manifesto, directing departments to account for delayed projects as he sought to accelerate development works over the next six months.

The directions came at the first meeting of Ministers and senior administrative officers at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu following the resumption of the traditional Darbar Move.

The Chief Minister said the next six months would be crucial for the government to translate its development commitments into results, particularly through faster execution of projects and effective utilisation of funds already allocated to departments.

He asked newly inducted Ministers and those who have been assigned new portfolios to conduct a detailed assessment of their departments, identifying projects completed, works still underway and commitments on which implementation has yet to begin.

Importantly, the review will also examine why certain projects have not taken off and what measures are required to overcome delays.

Omar also sought a comprehensive assessment of the National Conference-led government's election manifesto commitments, asking departments to identify promises fulfilled and those requiring further action.

The directions come as the government prepares its Budget for 2027-28, with the Chief Minister seeking greater accountability over spending and implementation of schemes announced in the previous financial year.

He particularly stressed monitoring projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), directing Ministers to regularly assess their progress.

Departments have been asked to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), project proposals and tender documents well before the next financial year so that works can begin immediately after funds are sanctioned.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The Chief Minister also cautioned against last-minute additions to the Budget without adequate preparation, saying departments must identify priorities early and hold consultations with the Finance and Planning Departments.

He asked Ministers to visit and review the districts assigned to them, placing responsibility on them to monitor development works beyond their departmental offices.

Winter preparedness also figured in the meeting, with Omar directing departments to ensure uninterrupted essential services as the administration begins its winter functioning from Jammu.

Concerns over the dumping and stocking of ration in certain areas were raised, prompting the Chief Minister to direct the concerned department to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities.

The Chief Minister also asked officials to address accommodation and office-related difficulties faced by employees who have shifted to Jammu under the Darbar Move.

In his remarks, Omar stressed that administrative work should remain focused and unaffected by external distractions, while calling for closer coordination between Ministers and senior bureaucrats.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Cabinet Ministers, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Acting Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Administrative Secretaries and senior civil and police officers.

Earlier, the Acting Chief Secretary briefed the meeting on departmental functioning and preparations for the 2027-28 Budget, while Ministers raised issues requiring administrative intervention.

Later, Omar visited the chambers of newly inducted Ministers and inspected various sections of the Civil Secretariat to review arrangements following its reopening in Jammu. (KNS)