Can Jharkhand Secure Rs 3.03 Lakh Crore from the 16th Finance Commission for Development?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Jharkhand government is seeking Rs 3.03 lakh crore from the 16th Finance Commission.
- Funding aims to enhance integrated and inclusive development in the state.
- Infrastructure development is a primary focus, requesting Rs 2.01 lakh crore.
- The state has presented a comprehensive roadmap for growth across key sectors.
- Positive engagement observed between state officials and the Finance Commission.
Ranchi, May 30 (NationPress) The government of Jharkhand has formally requested a significant grant of Rs 3.03 lakh crore from the 16th Finance Commission aimed at propelling the state towards more integrated and inclusive development.
On Friday, key ministers, senior officials, and representatives of the state administration delivered an in-depth presentation to the visiting Finance Commission team, laying out a thorough roadmap for growth across essential sectors.
Led by Chairman Arvind Panagariya, the Commission is currently conducting a four-day visit to the state.
The state government contended that, despite Jharkhand's rich mineral and natural resources, it has not received central funding commensurate with the extent to which these resources contribute to national development.
During a high-level meeting, Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore, along with Higher Education, Urban Development and Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu, Water Resources Minister Yogendra Prasad, and other officials, highlighted the necessity for special financial assistance to elevate Jharkhand to the standards of more developed states.
The state has specifically requested Rs 2.01 lakh crore for infrastructure development, which encompasses vital areas such as roads, bridges, rural development, transport, urban infrastructure, energy, industry, and tourism.
Additional requests include Rs 44,447 crore for the social sector; Rs 41,388 crore for agriculture, forests, and water resources; and Rs 17,918 crore for home affairs, Panchayati Raj, land reforms, and revenue administration.
After the meeting, Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu expressed that the Commission had gathered comprehensive feedback on the state's conditions, challenges, and priorities. “Their stance on our requests seemed optimistic,” he stated.
Water Resources Minister Yogendra Prasad added: “We have submitted a detailed report on Jharkhand’s unique challenges and aspirations. We are hopeful that the Commission will address our needs adequately.”
He further remarked, “We are confident that Jharkhand will receive grants that align with our vision for holistic development across all sectors.”