Odisha Among Top Beneficiaries Of Centre’s Aid For Capital Investment

New Delhi: Odisha is among the top beneficiaries in opposition-ruled states of the Centre’s scheme to boost capital investment. The other two are West Bengal and Rajasthan. Together, they have cornered Rs 41,566 crore, almost three-fourths so far.

Meanwhile, Bihar will receive the largest chunk of the Rs 56,415 crore cleared by the Centre for 16 states.

According to the finance ministry, Bihar is in line to receive Rs 9,640 crore, or 17%, of funds, with Madhya Pradesh next.

Capital investment projects have been approved in diverse sectors such as health, education, irrigation, water supply, power, roads, bridges and railways.

Funds for meeting the state’s share of Jal Jeevan Mission and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana have also been provided to enhance the pace of the projects in these sectors,” an official release said. Bihar is seen to be ahead of the pack in implementing the water supply scheme to households.

Under the scheme, in 2023-24, special assistance is being provided to the states through 50-year interest-free loans up to Rs 1. 3 lakh crore. While there are eight components, the biggest, of Rs 1 lakh, is linked to the share of taxes and duties as prescribed by the 15th Finance Commission, along with compliance with the reforms proposed by the Centre, Times of India reported.