NEW DELHI: The Rural Development Ministry is yet to disburse around Rs 2,000 crore to states with regard to the numerous schemes under its purview.
The biggest sum is for Uttar Pradesh with the pending fund release from the previous fiscal running to the tune of Rs 199 crore. The other state that awaits central funds is West Bengal with funds close to Rs 150 crore in the pipeline.
Ministry officials, however, say there are two reasons for the non-disbursement of the funds. “Firstly, there were elections being held in some states and due to the model code of conduct, it was not possible to release the funds,” a ministry official said.
Another reason, according to the officials, is that the implementation of schemes in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh is being done with the state’s share of funds. “It is not yet required to distribute funds to these states as they are implementing the schemes on their own. Whenever required, we will disburse the funds to them,” he added.
Telangana is yet to receive Rs 21.7 crore from the previous financial year while the figure for Tamil Nadu is Rs 21.6 crore. Andhra has outstanding dues worth Rs 28.8 crore.
The Rural Development Ministry is responsible for the implementation of banking schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. Some other schemes that fall under its purview include Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana and employment programmes.