Reduction in project allocation: departments face setback

• Utilization is only 67.82 percent

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Due to the severe economic crisis, the decrease in project allocation from the government has severely affected the development work of various departments including local bodies. With only two days left for the end of this financial year, the departments have been able to utilize only 67.82 percent of the project allocation received so far. This is the least utilization in the past five years. Last year it was 93.48 percent. The state plan allocation for this financial year is 22,322 crores. At the same time, the government considers it a success to be able to spend so much even in a severe financial crisis.

Out of 8048 crores for local bodies, the third installment of 1876 crores to be paid in December was allocated on February 13, but one-third of the amount was paid only on last 13th. Due to this, the projects could not be completed and the local institutions were in trouble. 1251.11 crore is yet to be paid. Even if it is handed over, it is likely to be treated as spillover. If so, there may be a decrease in the plan allocation for the next year. The situation is similar in many other departments.

Government departments and local bodies can give the bills in the treasury only till 5 pm today. After that, it will not be accepted. None of these bills are likely to be passed by the 31st. It will be passed according to the order of priority. Those that remain untouched will be considered in the next financial year.

20,000 crore is required

At least 20,000 crore is needed for this month's expenses. But the loan was approved for only 6800 crores. Government sources say that even if the reserve in the treasury is taken into account, at least 12,000 crores of expenditure will have to be deferred.

Project utilization of various departments

(in percent)

2018-19 – 80.98

2019-20 - 74.52

2020-21 - 97.97

2021-22 - 93.48

2022-23 - 67.82