"Lack of funds hampering panchayats' working"

Alappuzha, Jul 20: Union Panchayati Raj Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar today said lack of funds was the main problem hampering the working of panchayats in the country.

Talking to reporters after inaugurating the Mararikulam backwater shore development project near here, Mr Aiyar appealed to all political parties not to politicise developmental activities, which were needed for the progress of the country.

Lauding the 'Mararikulam Model' of development, he said this could be a model for the rest of the country.

Asked about certain allegations regarding misuse of funds, levelled by the UDF, Mr Aiyar said the government will look into the matter.

On promotion of rural industries, the minister said the union government would take steps to set up rural business hubs for better marketing of products made by self-financing societies.

Stressing the need for the societies to maintain quality in their products, he said foreign markets also could be explored for these products.

Referring to the problems faced by the local coir industry, Mr Aiyar said that the government would try to resolve these through discussions with the Coir Board and other organisations.

Earlier, participating in the Mararikulam backwaters shore development project, Finance Minister and area MLA Thomas Issac said that such projects could change the face of the under-privileged villages in Kerala.

UNI