Speed up utilisation of SC and ST Sub-Plan Funds: Bhatti

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has directed officials to expedite the utilisation of funds allocated under the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) Sub-Plans, stressing that welfare allocations meant for the social and economic advancement of marginalised communities should be spent without delay.

Chairing a review meeting with senior Finance Department officials at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat, Mr. Bhatti reviewed department-wise allocations, expenditure and progress under the SC and ST Progress Sub-Plan. He emphasised that all departments must ensure that funds are utilised strictly for their intended purpose and in line with budgetary allocations.

Expressing concern over delays in expenditure by some departments, the Deputy Chief Minister directed officials to identify gaps in utilisation and take immediate corrective measures. He instructed the Finance Department to conduct special reviews with departments lagging behind and convene meetings with secretaries of priority departments to accelerate spending. Departments to be reviewed include Agriculture, Medical and Health, Energy, Municipal Administration, Panchayat Raj, Social Welfare, Industries and Tribal Welfare.

Mr. Bhatti said funds earmarked for the welfare, social advancement and economic empowerment of SCs and STs should be fully utilised in accordance with statutory provisions. He called for comprehensive reports detailing department-wise allocations, expenditure incurred and measures required to ensure effective utilisation of the remaining funds during the current financial year.

The Deputy Chief Minister also focused on broader financial management issues, directing officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan on financial reforms, resource mobilisation and debt restructuring. He stressed the need to strengthen the State’s finances through efficient use of resources, enhanced revenue generation and prudent expenditure management.

Highlighting the importance of long-term fiscal stability, Mr. Bhatti urged officials to formulate policies that support sustainable economic growth. He also suggested engaging experienced consultants and financial experts to adopt best practices in financial management and ensure better coordination between budget allocations, expenditure and development programmes.

Finance and Planning Secretary Gaurav Uppal, Finance Special Secretary Sikta Patnaik and other senior officials attended the review meeting.