Rs 680 Crore MGNREGS Funds Unused in Srikakulam: Lanka Dinakar

Visakhapatnam: Viksit Bharat – Swarna Andhra Pradesh 20-Points’ Programme chairman Lanka Dinakar has found major gaps in using the material component of MGNREGS, with nearly Rs 680 crore remaining unutilised in Srikakulam district between 2019–20 and 2023–24.

Presenting a report on the scheme’s implementation in Srikakulam on Tuesday, he pointed out that while the labour wages component had been fully utilised, there had been a sharp fall in beneficiary numbers after KYC verification. He sought accountability for funds that leaked.

Dinakar maintained that under the redefined VB-G RAM-G norms, such irregularities will be eliminated and justice done to genuine workers. Employment guaranteed will be increased from 100 to 125 days. There will be a 60-day exemption from work under VB-G RAM-G, so that the workers are available during agricultural season. “The modified scheme thus makes available 185 days of employment annually,” the 20-Points Programme chairman asserted. He directed officials to prepare plans to secure maximum funds for Srikakulam district under the new VB-G RAM-G framework.

Addressing officials at a review meeting along with district collector Swapnil Dinakar Pundkar, Lanka Dinakar emphasised that all government programmes must be implemented in letter and spirit in alignment with the Viksit Bharat – Swarna Andhra vision. He called for special focus on National Health Mission programmes and strengthening Ayushman Bharat – Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva to make Srikakulam a model of healthy district.

The 20-Points’ Programme chairman reviewed key health schemes, including JSY, JSSK, PM Matru Vandana Yojana, RKSK, RBSK, Ayushman Bharat–PMJAY, and Dr NTR Vaidya Seva. Officials reported that 96.05 per cent of deliveries are institutional, with Rs 39.38 lakh disbursed under the maternity benefit schemes from April to November 2025. He directed officials to intensify efforts to further reduce infant mortality rate and maternal mortality rate in line with the Swarna Andhra Vision 2047.

Reviewing education initiatives, Dinakar said schemes, such as Talliki Vandanam, Samagra Shiksha, PM SHRI Schools, and PM Poshan – Dokka Seethamma Mid-Day Meal are reducing dropouts and improving learning outcomes. Upgradation works at schools under PM SHRI are progressing and will be completed by February.

He also reviewed with officials water resources and renewable energy schemes.