No Property Tax in rural areas, residential properties with an area of 1,000 sq ft & religious places in Municipal limits exempted’ KISHTWAR, FEBRUARY 24: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Dr. Devansh Yadav today gave a detailed account of the property tax rolled out by the Government of UT of Jammu and Kashmir in the areas falling in Municipal areas on the lines of the rest of the country. Addressing a press conference, he stated that people need not to be worried about newly introduced property tax as it is for the benefit of the residents of Municipal areas because the same will make the Municipal Council (Committees) self-reliant to create better infrastructure, construct new parks and playgrounds and maintain existing facilities. He informed the media persons that the best part is that the collected funds shall be at the disposal of local bodies/councilors. He said that Jammu and Kashmir is one of the last States or UTs in India to levy a property tax and the rates are reported to be lower than in its neighboring states. Furthermore, he disclosed that the amount of taxes payable by residents as calculated by Municipal Council authorities in the Kishtwar town is very nominal which will not be a burden for the common people rather will enhance the scope of infrastructure development in the municipality in addition to the funds available. While briefing the media persons, the Deputy Commissioner further said that as per the new tax formula, residential properties with an area of up to 1,000 sq ft will be exempted from property tax. Residential properties with a built-up area of up to 1,500 sq ft will be given concessions and relief for different categories of houses. Responding to queries of media persons, he informed that the property tax can be paid in two equal installments and that it would not be levied on religious places within municipal limits or for residential buildings in rural areas.
