Tripura MPs use 83% fund, say rules create hurdles

Agartala, March 28 (IANS) The two MPs in Tripura have utilised 83.25 per cent of the total Rs 40.92 crore funds released under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) in the past five years.

They have blamed the "cumbersome guidelines and norms" of the government for being the major obstacles in reaching 100 per cent success.

Under the MPLADS, each MP has the choice to suggest to the District Collector for works to the tune of Rs 5 crore per annum to be taken up in one's constituency.

The Central government released Rs 40.92 crore (including the interest) against the entitlement of Rs 62.50 crore for the two parliamentary constituencies in Tripura during the five-year period (2014-2019). While Rs 30.30 crore was utilised, Rs 7.61 crore remain unspent, according to official figures.

Jitendra Chaudhury, MP from Tripura East seat (which is reserved for tribals), told IANS that cumbersome rules and guidelines are the major hurdles in full achievement of MPLADS.

Due to High Court cases, lack of seriousness in some officials and non-execution of previous period's projects, 100 per cent success is not attained, said Chaudhury, who is seeking re-election from the same seat.

Tripura West MP, Sankar Prasad Datta, echoed Chaudhury's views.

According to Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, under MPLADS, role of the MPs is limited only up to recommendation of works. "It is the responsibility of the district authority to sanction, execute and complete the works suggested by Members of Parliament within the stipulated time period."

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