In a pre-Budget consultation meeting, Odisha's Finance Minister Niranjan Pujari sought fund allocation at a ratio of 90:10 for all centrally sponsored schemes (CSS). The Minister has demanded sharing pattern in the CSS at par with north-eastern and Himalayan states. Pujari called for a sharing pattern to stop off-budget transfers of funds for CSS. Even if it is an off-Budget resource for the Union government, it should be routed through the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
He called for allowing states to operate the CSS directly instead of opening a separate scheme based bank account. An advance indication on Central assistance for the CSS should be given and funds should be released as per commitments. Pujari also called for an amendment to sub-section (3) of Section 8 of the Central Sales Tax Act 1956 to prohibit misuse of 'C' forms by manufacturers, mining contractors and works contractors for inter-state purchase of high-speed diesel paying CST at the rate of two percent.
He called for making a provision of at least Rs 7,200-Cr in the upcoming Budget for 2021-22 for railway infrastructure in Odisha, sanctioning of new lines, modernization of stations, the establishment of rail-based industries and multi-modal logistics parks. Pujari called for the allocation of at least Rs 5,650-Cr for the telecom sector in the state. The state minister also called for gradually removing cess and surcharge on the customs duty and direct taxes.
Mamata Banerjee targets BJp for creating hurdles in their meeting
CM Rawat's surprise inspection at Garhwal Commissioner Camp Office
'It's been fantastic journey with Odisha Sports' says Kushal Das