Question : which of the following statements regarding MPLADS are correct?
i) It was launched in December 1993.
ii) It provides a mechanism for MP’s by which they can recommend work of developmental nature for creation of durable community assets and for provision of basic facilities including community infrastructure, based on locally felt needs.
iii) MPLADS provide for an annual fund of Rs 2 crore.
a) Only i
b) Only ii
c) i and ii
d) None of the above
Answer: c)
Context
- Members of all parties have unanimously asked the government to release funds for the projects sanctioned in 2018 and 2019, which were under way before the funds were suspended due the COVID-19 pandemic.
Background
- Union Government has suspended MPLADS scheme using Disaster Management Act in April this year.
Facts
- The MPLADS is a Plan Scheme fully funded by Government of India.
- Annual entitlement to per MP constituency under MPLADS is Rs 5 crore.
- Launched in December, 1993.
- Seeks to provide a mechanism for the Members of Parliament to recommend works of developmental nature for creation of durable community assets and for provision of basic facilities including community infrastructure, based on locally felt needs.
How Funds are released?
- Funds are released in the form of grant in aid directly to district administration.
- Funds do not lapse and if not used within a year, they are carried forward to next year.
- MP’s only have recommendary role with regards to projects.
- The district authority is empowered to examine the eligibility of works, sanction funds and select the implementing agencies, prioritise works, supervise overall execution, and monitor the scheme at the ground level.
- At least 10% of the projects under implementation in the district are to be inspected every year by the district authority.
By – Kameshwar Shukla