The Andhra Pradesh coalition government has announced relief for village panchayat sarpanches by permitting the use of 15th Finance Commission funds. The Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Department issued official orders allowing the release of funds for pending works. As a result, long-delayed bill payments in several villages are expected to speed up.
Government Issues Key Orders
According to the latest orders, gram panchayats can utilize the 15th Finance Commission funds based on resolutions passed on January 5. The government clearly stated that local bodies must follow the approved resolutions while spending the funds.
Moreover, officials confirmed that bills related to already completed works can now be cleared. However, authorities have instructed that all completed works must be properly recorded in the measurement books before processing payments.
Relief for Sarpanches Facing Financial Strain
For months, sarpanches across the state have struggled due to unpaid bills linked to development projects. Many village-level works remained financially stuck despite completion. Consequently, local representatives faced pressure from contractors and workers.
With the government now granting permission to use the 15th Finance Commission funds, the payment process is likely to move faster. This step offers much-needed relief to elected village heads.
Boost for Rural Development
Importantly, the decision is expected to revive stalled development activities in rural areas. Once pending payments are cleared, contractors may resume or accelerate new works. Therefore, villages could witness improved infrastructure and services in the coming weeks.
Overall, the coalition government’s move has opened the way for smoother financial management at the panchayat level. Sarpanches now hope that timely fund utilisation will prevent similar delays in the future.
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