Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has approved the introduction of a private member’s bill in the Assembly that proposes a statutory framework for reorganising administrative divisions and districts in the Union Territory.

The bill, moved by PDP legislator Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, is expected to be considered during the ongoing Budget session of the Assembly.

Key Announcements / Highlights

Proposal for new administrative divisions including Chenab and Pir Panjal
Plan to create multiple new districts across Jammu and Kashmir regions
Bill aims to establish a legal framework for administrative restructuring
Focus on decentralised governance and improved public service delivery
Assembly to take up the bill during Budget session

Official Statement
According to an official order issued under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, the Lieutenant Governor has granted approval for the introduction of the “Jammu and Kashmir Territorial Administrative Reorganisation Bill, 2026.”

The proposed legislation outlines a structured mechanism for creating new administrative units, with the government empowered to assign districts to divisions based on factors such as geography, administrative efficiency, and socio-cultural considerations.

Context / Background
Jammu and Kashmir’s administrative structure currently consists of divisions, districts, sub-divisions and tehsils that manage governance and service delivery across diverse and often difficult terrain.

The proposed bill seeks to address challenges arising from large geographical areas, remote locations, and regional disparities by enabling more localised governance.

Among the key proposals are the creation of a Chenab Division headquartered in Doda and a Pir Panjal Division based in Rajouri. The bill also suggests several new districts, particularly in hill and remote regions across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

Public Impact
If implemented, the reorganisation could improve administrative accessibility, especially in remote and hilly areas where residents often face challenges in accessing government services.

The creation of smaller administrative units may lead to more efficient governance, quicker decision-making, and better implementation of development schemes.

It could also help address regional imbalances by ensuring more focused planning and resource allocation.

Conclusion
The bill has been submitted to the Assembly Secretariat and is likely to be discussed during the resumed Budget session, which continues until early April.

Its progress will depend on legislative deliberations, with key dates earmarked for private members’ bills and resolutions in the coming days.

Input & Images : Hindusthan Samachar

Last Updated on: Thursday, March 26, 2026 5:05 pm by Monisha Angara | Published by: Monisha Angara on Thursday, March 26, 2026 5:05 pm | News Categories: India