Odisha is ahead of nine other States in implementing the Integrated Action Plan (IAP) in the Maoists-hit areas, revealed the latest Planning Commission report. According to the report, Odisha tops the list with utilisation of more than 87 per cent funds coming under the Central project. Andhra Pradesh is at the bottom with less than 75 per cent fund spending.
A total amount of `1789.64 crore has been spent in the State by December 1 against total amount of `2037.57 crore received. It was revealed at a review meeting held under chairmanship of Chief Secretary GC Pati recently.
The IAP is being implemented in 18 Maoist-hit districts in the State. Each identified district received `25 crore in 2010-11 and `30 crore every year during 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14. The 18 districts have received `20 crore so for the current fiscal.
It was also revealed that while Sundargarh tops the Physical Performance Index (PPI) with 94 per cent IAP funds utilisation, Keonjhar remains at the bottom 59 per cent spending. The major problems that IAP implementation faces include vacancies in field level posts like BDOs, Junior Engineers and non-availability of contractors in the Maoist areas.