J K News Today
Jammu, January 11 Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu lived up to his reputation as a man who can package anything that sounds pleasing to ears for a while before the hard realities start staring in face . A trained economist and professional journalist , knowing how to play with words , Drabu presented fourth budget in a row with all the elements – the implementation of seventh Pay commission for nearly 5 lakh state employees from April 1st with retrospective effect of 2016 , exemption of tax on export of fruits , reduction of eligibility for full pension from 33 years service to 20 years , loan waivers for Houseboat owners , freight subsidy to industrial units – to add charm to his budget .
A clinical analysis would reveal that how much Drabu has succeeded in his mission to project the financial success to the situation on the ground because many sectors, tourism, industry and transport are facing hard times. But at the moment, his packaging ability has dazzled his admirers, mostly from the government including Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.
She said “ the budget by focusing on pachayats , has fully displayed the commitment of her government to strengthen local self government in the state at political , administrative and financial levels,” impliedly crediting Drabu for having carried forward her agenda . She was facing a lot of criticism for not being serious on the Panchayat polls. Now the polls are scheduled to be held from mid-February, while the notification is expected tomorrow (January 12).
Drabu’s two unique qualities – lot of cerebral material and sweet talk – have worked to his advantage. This charm is working well for him in the Central government where Finance Minister Arun Jaitley trusts him. He knows his assets and is adept at playing them successfully.