Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: Jharkhand has received a major financial boost for rural local bodies as the Centre released ₹687.8 crore under the 15th Finance Commission. The funds include both untied and tied basic grants aimed at strengthening panchayats and accelerating rural development.
Untied Grant Of ₹275.12 Crore Released
Under the second installment for 2024-25, Jharkhand received ₹27,512.53 lakh (approximately ₹275.12 crore) as untied basic grant. The amount will benefit 4,342 gram panchayats, 253 block panchayats, and 24 zila parishads across the state.
The untied grant allows local bodies to utilize funds based on their priorities under subjects listed in the 11th Schedule. These include rural roads, drainage construction, community buildings, water conservation, street lighting, and agriculture-related initiatives.
₹412.68 Crore Tied Grant For Core Services
In addition, ₹41,268.79 lakh (around ₹412.68 crore) has been released as the first installment of tied basic grant for 2024-25. Tied grants are earmarked for specific sectors such as drinking water supply, sanitation, solid and liquid waste management, rainwater harvesting, and maintenance of open defecation-free (ODF) status.
Priority expenditure is to be ensured particularly in drinking water and sanitation projects to improve rural infrastructure.
Push For Strengthening Panchayats
State Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Deepika Pandey Singh credited sustained coordination efforts with the Centre for securing the release of funds. The grants are expected to enhance the financial strength of panchayats and speed up the implementation of grassroots development schemes.
The allocation is seen as a significant step toward empowering local self-governance institutions and promoting sustainable rural development across Jharkhand.
