Chief Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Wednesday directed all principal secretaries and secretaries to expedite projects under respective departments and bring down hurdles coming in the way of execution for a quick resolution. The CS cautioned officials to not slow down the pace of execution of projects which were promised by Chief Minister Raghubar Das in his budgetary speech.

The CS expressed that all departments must release plan funds and approval of the project by May so that projects can be implemented on ground. He also emphasised on sharing progress report with Planning and Development department on a monthly basis to enable regular review of projects.

Principal Secretary of Finance Amit Khare informed officials that the department has issued orders for the release of 50 per cent of state’s contribution in centre sponsored projects in the beginning of a year for fast execution of projects. The order is a departure from the earlier practice where state’s funds were released after obtaining centre’s share of a project. Khare informed that all departments can release 50 per cent funds for centrally sponsored schemes in the month of September.

The Principal Secretary also informed that the proportion of state’s share and centre’s contribution in 24 centre sponsored projects has been amended (see box) in the financial year 2015-16 but departments can release 50 percent of the total fund by September 2015. Khare asked departments to convey their grievances related to fund allocation. Meanwhile the CS also directed the officials to make provisions so that Kendu leaves collectors can get their remuneration directly into their bank accounts and instructed them to make the process smooth. Development Commissioner RS Poddar was also present in the meeting along with other senior officials.