Tripura: LoP Animesh raises concerns over financial management, Budget allocation
Animesh Debbarma, the Leader of the Opposition, brought crucial issues related to financial management and budget allocation to the forefront during the discussions on the Budget 2024 in the Assembly on Monday.
Unspent Funds: A Missed Opportunity
Debbarma shed light on the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report, which stated the government failed to utilize 26% of the funds allocated in the previous fiscal year. The unspent funds, he emphasized, could have far-reaching consequences. But what led to this inefficiency?
The primary culprit, according to Debbarma, is a lack of proper planning. He questioned why these unutilized funds were not redirected to critical areas such as the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) and providing Dearness Allowance (DA) to State government employees. The potential impact extends beyond the state’s borders, potentially affecting the flow of Central funds from bodies like the NITI Aayog and the Central Government.
Budget Critique: A Call for Clarity
Debbarma did not mince words when critiquing the Budget. He highlighted several glaring issues including Lack of specific targets, Absence of long-term goals and inadequate provisions for marginalized groups.
He said, The Budget lacks clear goals and specific targets. Without a roadmap, how can the state achieve meaningful progress and reach target of building Ek Tripura, Shrestha Tripura.
Debbarma stressed the need for long-term vision. A budget should not merely address immediate concerns but also pave the way for sustained growth.
The welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), tea garden workers, and other underprivileged groups remain insufficiently addressed. After the abolition of the concept of Below Poverty Line (BPL), approximately 29 lakh individuals now fall into the Priority Group. The Budget must prioritize their welfare to achieve the vision of “Ek Tripura, Shresta Tripura.”
Jhumiya Rehabilitation & Tribal Development: A Cry for Solutions
Debbarma expressed deep concern about the persistent challenges faced by Jhumiyas (shifting cultivators) and tribal communities. These issues, he argued, stem from flaws in budgeting. Sustainable solutions are urgently needed to ensure their well-being and development.
Moreover, the Opposition Leader expressed his disappointment with the inadequate allocation of funds in critical sectors such as Health and Rural Development. The progress of Tripura hinges on effective financial management, and Debbarma’s call for accountability reverberates across the state.
He also raised the issue of the STGT and recruitment in various departments including in the Assembly secretariat. He said, exams for the Selection Test for Graduate Teacher (STGT) were held in 2022 but the results are yet to be published.
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