* Depts fail in timely utilization of funds
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Mar 26: Due to the sluggish approach of the authorities in Anantnag district, the funds that were released under Special Central Assistance to the Tribal Sub-Scheme for the execution of several developmental works in the district by the Tribal Affairs Department have not been utilized.
The funds amounting to around Rs 43 lakh were released by the department for the construction of several healthcare facilities in the Tribal areas of Anantnag. However, these could not be utilized due to the sluggish approach of the District Administration as well as other concerned executive agencies.
As per the details, the funds were released for the construction of Sub Centre Buildings at areas such as Rakhi Brah, Kachwan, Gujjar Basti Lidroo and Gowas for which more than Rs 10 lakh each were released by the Department.
As per the order that was issued by the District Development Commissioner, Anantnag in January this year, the amount was released under centrally sponsored scheme SCA to TSS…in favour of Chief Medical Officer, Anantnag for the construction/upgradation of PHCs/CHCs in tribal areas as per approved activities…for its utilization during the current financial year (2020-21). The order states that the works shall be completed well before the closure of the current financial year.
An official told Excelsior that the works could not be taken up due to the absence of land for the buildings in the respective areas. They said that once the land is handed over, then the Detailed Project Report is made and accordingly the work is taken up. “There was no land available and that’s why works could not be taken up and the funds were surrendered back to the concerned,” the officials said.
The officials also said that there is also undue delay on part of the district administration in filing the plans to the Tribal Affairs Department for various works which in turns delay the execution of such works on the ground further.
The move has disheartened the Tribal community in the district which was to be benefitted from the construction of these healthcare buildings. They said that the authorities are resorting to dillydallying tactics despite the availability of funds.
“Earlier, they used to say that there are no funds and now that there are funds, they are being callous in utilizing the same for the betterment of the community,” said a member of the Tribal Community.
Director, Tribal Affairs Department, Saleem Malik told Excelsior that there is no issue with the funds as they can be utilized next financial year. “Though, these funds were to be utilised during the current financial year, but were not utilised due to various reasons. However, these funds will be revalidated and be used again,” he said.
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