Hyderabad, Feb.5 (RAHNUMA): The Union government has officially approved the disbursement of funds allocated by the 15th Finance Commission, which are essential for village development.
In accordance with directives from the Union Finance Ministry, the initial installment of Rs. 259.36 crore has been allocated to the Gram Panchayats in Telangana.
The release of these funds has been postponed for the previous two years due to delays in elections. Despite the fact that the 15th Finance Commission funds for the financial years 2024–25 and 2025–26 are owed to the state, their disbursement has been impeded for a range of reasons.
The primary factor contributing to this delay has been the issue of increased reservations for Backward Classes and the subsequent Supreme Court ruling that postponed the gram panchayat elections.
In this context, the Union government has unequivocally stated that the release of outstanding funds will occur only after the village panchayat elections have been conducted.
Following the conclusion of the Gram Panchayat elections in Telangana, Panchayat Raj Minister Seethakka reached out to the central government via letters, requesting the prompt release of the overdue funds. She also maintained ongoing communication with various central ministries. Meanwhile, N. Sridhar, the Principal Secretary of the Panchayat Raj department, along with other officials, actively engaged with the central government to facilitate the release of these funds.
As a result of these efforts, the central government has commenced the process of disbursing the 15th Finance Commission funds.
Per the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission, the state of Telangana is expected to receive a total of around Rs. 3,000 crore.
The initial release of Rs. 259.36 crore has instilled optimism within the village panchayats, with further funds anticipated to be disbursed in successive phases.
Minister Seethakka expressed her satisfaction regarding the funds designated for the Gram Panchayats, asserting that such financial support will enhance basic infrastructure in villages and expedite development initiatives. Furthermore, she strongly urged the central government to ensure the prompt release of the outstanding funds without further delay.
