(a) whether the Twelfth Finance Commission had recommended that
the grant for the construction of roads and culverts be given to the
State Governments in two instalments; and
(b) if so, the reasons for not sanctioning the grant in respect
of Government of Karnataka so far and the time by which it is likely
to be released?
Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance (SHRI NAMO NARAINMEENA)
(a) & (b): The Twelfth Finance Commission (TFC) recommended State specific
grants specifically for construction of roads to only two States: Andhra Pradesh
for roads in remote and tribal areas and to Madhya Pradesh for extension of road
networks in remote areas.
TFC did not recommend grant for construction of roads and culverts
for Karnataka. However, TFC recommended grants to all States for maintenance
of roads and bridges over 2006-10 to be released in two equal instalments
each year. The first instalment of Rs. 182.27 crore for 2009-10, being
unconditional, was released during 2009-10. As the State did not comply
with the budget and expenditure conditions stipulated by the TFC, the
second instalment for maintenance of roads and bridges for the year 2009-10
could not be released to Karnataka.