Tripura CM Manik Saha Voices Concerns Over Financial Support Withdrawal
Tripura's Financial Concerns Addressed
Tripura CM Manik Saha
Agartala, Aug 31: On Sunday, Chief Minister Manik Saha of Tripura expressed that all states in the Northeast have collectively raised their concerns with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman regarding the potential withdrawal of the revenue gap fund, as recommended by the 16th Finance Commission.
Saha indicated that this withdrawal could impose significant financial strain on the Northeastern states, with Tripura alone projected to experience an annual deficit of approximately Rs 4,000 crore.
This matter was discussed in detail during a meeting held in Shillong, where representatives from the Northeastern states met with the Union Finance Minister.
Although the Centre has introduced a fund named ‘Pride of Hills’ to assist with financial needs in the region, Saha noted that this allocation may not be adequate to cover the expected losses fully.
Despite these financial challenges, the Chief Minister assured that the ongoing recruitment efforts by the State government would not be hindered. He stated, “We must fill vacant positions as much as possible, provided there are no technical issues.”
Saha emphasized that the reduction of the revenue gap fund would not impede the government's recruitment initiatives.
Previously, Tripura's Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy had voiced concerns about the fund's withdrawal, estimating a potential loss of around Rs 4,000 crore annually, which could total approximately Rs 20,000 crore over five years.
The State government has brought to the Finance Commission's attention its increasing fiscal responsibilities, including commitments to government employees and pensioners. This issue has gained importance amid discussions regarding the establishment of the 8th Pay Commission, which is anticipated to revise government employee salaries.
During a press briefing on Sunday, Saha reiterated the government's commitment to creating job opportunities and filling vacancies across various departments.
He acknowledged that while technical challenges might occasionally arise during recruitment, they would not deter the government from making appointments.
Additionally, the Chief Minister mentioned that the State government is taking proactive measures to prevent unreasonable hikes in essential commodity prices.
He revealed that he had spoken with the Food Minister and instructed officials to collaborate with traders and market stakeholders to ensure that prices remain stable and do not increase arbitrarily.
Furthermore, Saha stated that the Northeastern states would persist in urging the Centre for enhanced financial assistance to tackle the region's distinct fiscal challenges.