CANACONA: Downplaying the criticism over a circular regarding a 15 per cent cut by the government, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar said it was a mere formality over regulating unwanted expenses by departments.
Parsekar was addressing a gathering during the inaugural function of the Lukosthav-XV at Adarshgram in Amone-Poinguinim on Saturday.
“This circular is nothing new and it is being issued every year. This circular is not Parsekar’s creation, but even my predecessor Manohar Parrikar and for that matter, his predecessor, Digamber Kamat had issued it before. It is a mere formality over regulating unwanted expenses by departments. There is nothing to be seen into it regarding the State’s finances. Our financial position is strong and healthy and no one should doubt it,” said Parsekar.
Speaking further, Parsekar said, “We paid government staff salary on December 23, 2014 and honoured all government schemes, besides providing Rs 45 crore each to GSIDC, PWD and power department, and Rs 20 crore to the SAG. The State still has a surplus of Rs 85 crore in its coffers, so where is the question of a financial crunch?”
“All departments and especially Arts & Culture Department will continue to get its budgeted share of the funds. The circular is just for guidance over accommodating unused heads, as financial year-end is fast approaching.”
“No one should have a doubt on the State’s finances. The circular is a continuous process, and all social schemes as well as necessary funds will be provided to departments concerned. There will be no lack of funds/finances,” assured the chief minister.
Others present at the function were Sports and Tribal Affairs Minister Ramesh Tawadkar, Arts and Culture Minister Dayanand Mandrekar, Sanguem MLA Subhash Phaldessai, Sanquelim MLA Dr Pramod Sawant and BJP State President Vinay Tendulkar.
