(a) whether his Ministry appreciates the genuine concerns of the State Government and restore the provision of the schemes like BRGF and integral Action Plan keeping in view the developmental needs of the most vulnerable and backward regions of Odisha; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PANCHAYATI RAJ
(SHRI PARSHOTTAM RUPALA)
(a) & (b) Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF) Programme and Integrated Action Plan (IAP) have been delinked from the budgetary support of the Central Government with effect from financial year 2015-16 as these schemes have become a part of devolution to the States. This is in view of enhanced fiscal space made available to the States by the Fourteenth Finance Commission on account of higher devolution to the States from 32% to 42% of the Centre’s net tax receipts. This would enhance the availability of funds with the States allowing them greater autonomy for financing and designing the developmental schemes, especially for the vulnerable and backward regions. Further, NITI Aayog has informed that during 2015-16 and 2016-17, Rs.132.07 crore and Rs.367.93 crore have been released respectively, under the Special Plan for Odisha.
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