22/06/2019 - Acts & Policies

KEY POINTS

During the discussion in Lok Sabha, there are various problems with MPLADS with Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI).

Critical gaps

Poor implementation of the scheme

·        CAG on various grounds that included sanctioning of huge sums to trusts/societies beyond the norms or sanctioning of funds to ineligible organizations.

·        The utilization of MPLADS funds on the ground has even invited allegations of wrongdoing at the grassroots level by political opponents eroding public trust in elected representatives.

MOSPI data shows that over Rs 12,000 crore lies unspent, with some of it having not been released to lawmakers in the first place. This capital could have been deployed elsewhere for better realisation of the development agenda.

CIC is proposing that the framework make MPs answerable under RTI for MPLADS, which never took off.

Assets allegedly created under the scheme couldn’t be traced, and in one case, MPLADS money was spent on a length of road that was built under MLALADS funds. 

Remedial measures

·        Strict monitoring mechanism under ambit of e-governance to increase the transparency in utilization of funds.

·        A dedicated tab in MOSPI website to show details of funds allotted.

According to 2^nd ARC report

·        Interest accrued on MPLADS funds may be utilised   for   developmental purposes.

·        Money   released under the MPLADS should be deposited in the nationalised banks under a separate account,

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