Srinagar, Feb. 21 -- In public discourse, development is frequently equated with higher allocations, ambitious announcements, and large-scale infrastructure projects. Budget speeches are often judged by the magnitude of financial outlays. Departments measure progress in crores sanctioned, projects inaugurated, and tenders floated. Roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, drainage systems, and power infrastructure undeniably require funding. No society can progress without investment.

Yet, if governance is assessed not by announcements but by everyday experience, a different reality emerges. Persistent problems faced by citizens often do not result from inadequate budgets. They stem from administrative gaps- inconsistent enforcement, weak supe...