Jammu and Kashmir is set to adopt digital payment methods for its Panchayati Raj Institutions under the eGramSwaraj initiative to enhance financial transparency and accountability.
As per government data available with Rising Kashmir, while many states have fully transitioned to UPI-based payments for development work and revenue collection, Jammu and Kashmir is still in the process of implementation.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has advised all Panchayats in J&K to integrate Unified Payments Interface (UPI) systems, reducing dependency on cash and cheques.
The initiative will allow real-time online payments to vendors and service providers to ensure faster transactions, reduced corruption, and better financial management. The system is integrated with the Public Finance Management System (PFMS) to ensure accurate tracking of funds.
The adoption of digital payments is a step towards empowering rural governance in J&K.
Officials have confirmed that necessary meetings with service providers and vendors have been conducted, and the rollout is in progress.
While many states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have already fully enabled UPI payments across all Panchayats, J&K is working towards completing the transition. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has been requested to provide technical and logistical support for a smooth rollout.
The digital payment system will benefit rural development projects, tax collection, and citizen services, making transactions faster and more efficient.
The government aims to complete the transition soon to ensure that all Panchayats in J&K are digitally connected for financial operations.
