Centre Allocates Over Rs 223 Crore to Bolster Rural Local Bodies in Assam?
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Synopsis
The Centre has announced a significant allocation of over Rs 223 crore to enhance rural local bodies in Assam. This funding is part of the 15th Finance Commission grants for the financial year 2025-26, aimed at improving local governance and infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- The Centre released over Rs 223 crore to support rural local bodies in Assam.
- This funding is part of the 15th Finance Commission grants for 2025-26.
- Untied grants can address specific local needs.
- Initiatives like SabhaSaar enhance local governance.
- Grants can be utilized for sanitation and drinking water projects.
New Delhi, Nov 14 (NationPress) The Centre has allocated over Rs 223 crore to enhance rural local bodies in Assam as part of the 15th Finance Commission grants for the financial year 2025–26, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj on Friday.
This funding includes the second instalment of untied grants for the financial year 2024–25, totaling Rs 219.24 crores. These resources are designated for all eligible 27 District Panchayats, 182 Block Panchayats, and 2,192 Gram Panchayats in the state. Additionally, Rs 4.698 crores of the withheld portion from the first instalment of untied grants for the financial year 2024–25 has also been released to support 26 additional eligible Block Panchayats.
The Union government, through the Ministries of Panchayati Raj and Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation), advocates for the release of 15th Finance Commission grants to states for Panchayati Raj Institutions, which are subsequently distributed by the Ministry of Finance. The allocated grants are recommended and distributed in two instalments within a financial year.
Untied grants may be utilized by Panchayati Raj institutions and rural local bodies to fulfill location-specific needs under the 29 subjects outlined in the Eleventh Schedule, excluding salaries and establishment costs. Tied grants can be directed towards basic sanitation services and maintaining ODF (open defecation-free) status, which includes the management and treatment of household waste, human excreta, and faecal sludge. These grants can also be allocated for the supply of drinking water, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has introduced initiatives such as SabhaSaar - an AI-driven tool for documenting and summarizing Gram Sabha proceedings, SVAMITVA for digital land mapping and property rights, and eGramSwaraj for integrated online planning, accounting, and monitoring. Additionally, Gram Manchitra has been launched for geo-spatial planning. These platforms not only boost transparency and efficiency but also empower citizens to engage more actively in local governance.
Point of View
The Centre's decision to allocate over Rs 223 crore to rural local bodies in Assam reflects a commitment to enhancing local governance and infrastructure. This initiative aims to empower local institutions, ultimately benefiting communities across the state. The strategic use of funds will not only address immediate needs but also foster sustainable development in rural areas.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Rs 223 crore funding?
The funding aims to strengthen rural local bodies in Assam as part of the 15th Finance Commission grants for the financial year 2025-26.
Who will benefit from the released funds?
The funds will benefit all eligible District Panchayats, Block Panchayats, and Gram Panchayats in Assam.
What are untied grants?
Untied grants can be utilized by Panchayati Raj institutions for location-specific needs, excluding salaries and establishment costs.
What initiatives has the Ministry of Panchayati Raj introduced?
The Ministry has introduced initiatives like SabhaSaar, SVAMITVA, eGramSwaraj, and Gram Manchitra to enhance transparency and local governance.
What subjects can the grants be used for?
Grants can be used for various subjects under the Eleventh Schedule, including sanitation services and water supply.
