In a significant move to strengthen rural governance, the Centre releases Rs 27 crore to Meghalaya’s tribal councils under the XV Finance Commission (XV FC) grants. This funding aims to empower the three autonomous district councils—Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia—by providing them with the necessary resources to address location-specific needs and promote sustainable development.
Background and Context
The XV Finance Commission grants are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to bolster rural local self-governance. These grants are recommended by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation) and are released in two installments each financial year. The untied grants provide flexibility to rural local bodies to address specific local needs, while the tied grants focus on essential services such as sanitation and drinking water supply.
Allocation and Utilization of Funds
The Rs 27 crore released to Meghalaya’s tribal councils is the first installment of untied grants for the fiscal year 2021-22. These funds are designated for location-specific needs across 29 subjects outlined in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution, excluding expenses related to salaries and other establishment costs. The grants will support initiatives such as household waste management, human waste treatment, fecal sludge management, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling.
Impact on Tribal Councils
The release of funds is expected to have a positive impact on the tribal councils, enabling them to enhance their capabilities and become more self-reliant. By addressing location-specific needs, the councils can improve the quality of life for their communities and contribute to the overall development of the region. This move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas,” promoting inclusive growth and participatory democracy.
Government’s Commitment to Rural Development
The Centre’s decision to release funds to Meghalaya’s tribal councils underscores its commitment to strengthening rural local self-governance. By empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Rural Local Bodies (RLBs), the government aims to foster accountability, capability, and self-reliance in rural governance. This initiative is a step towards achieving the vision of a prosperous and self-reliant “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Future Prospects
The XV Finance Commission grants are expected to play a crucial role in driving sustainable development across rural regions. By providing the necessary resources, the government aims to make PRIs and RLBs more capable and accountable, thereby contributing to the nation’s development framework. The continued support for rural local bodies will ensure that they remain essential pillars of national development, promoting inclusive growth and participatory democracy.
Related Reading: Check out the latest news here!
FAQs About the XV Finance Commission Grants
What is the significance of the XV Finance Commission grants?
The grants aim to strengthen rural local self-governance by providing funds to address location-specific needs and promote sustainable development.
What are the autonomous district councils in Meghalaya?
The three autonomous district councils are Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia.
How will the funds be utilized?
The funds will be used to address location-specific needs such as household waste management, human waste treatment, fecal sludge management, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling.
What is the vision behind the XV Finance Commission grants?
The grants align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas,” promoting inclusive growth and participatory democracy.
