43.7 million allocated to Sikkim as Central Assistance

GANGTOK, July 16, 2013

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has earmarked Rs. 437 lakh (43.7 mn) for Sikkim for the year 2013-14 as Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan being implemented in the State. This is part of a total of Rs. 1200 crore earmarked for different States in the current financial year by Ministry of Tribal Affairs under the

Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan being implemented in the States a special area programme fully funded by the centre. The allocation marks is an increase of 11 percent over last year’s allocation as there is provision for 120 crore more for incentive projects based upon states performance in effective implementation of T.S.P.

The fund meant for 22 States will be utilized for employment-cum income generation activities among tribals and development of infrastructure in tribal areas which will raise the economic and social status of tribals.

Sectors like agriculture, horticulture, land reforms, watershed development, animal husbandry, ecology & environment, development of entrepreneurship in small scale industries, small scale trading and improving connectivity in tribal areas will be given priority.

Based upon the yardstick of percentage of tribal population in a State in the total tribal population of India, the highest amount of Rs. 175.25 crore has been earmarked for Madhya Pradesh followed by Odisha (Rs. 133.21 crore) and Jharkhand (Rs. 121.87 crore).

(Courtesy: Sikkim Express)