In order to empower women through financial independence, the State Government launched ‘Mo Upakari Bagicha’ but it is alleged that financial irregularities to the tune of several lakhs of rupees have occurred in the district.
Under the scheme, women would be provided financial assistance of Rs 10,479 under MGNREGA scheme for growing vegetables and fruits along with Rs 250 provided for seeds and saplings. Under Mo Upakari Bagicha in the district 12,000 women were included from different blocks. From Nilgiri, the highest number was over 2,196 women followed by 1,910 in Jaleswar, 1,485 from Bhograi and 1,233 from Khaira were included. Under the scheme, about Rs 13 crore was spent.
But it is alleged genuine beneficiaries were not accommodated in the scheme. Complaints received from the women of different blocks including Jaleswar, Bhograi, Remuna and Bahanga said although their land was inspected by the officials yet they were extended scheme benefits and on the other hand ineligible women were given money with ulterior motive. Some of the complainants said that they have apprised about the scam to the district Collector and Chief Secretary.
In current year while there is a plan of including another 2,000 women of Sadar, Khaira, Bhograi and Jaleswar blocks, they have begun to apprehend transparency in the scheme. The district Collector assured that the allegations if any would be probed and appropriate actions would be taken.