TN: Centre sanctions 63.63 cr for rural water scheme

Chennai, June 18: The Centre has sanctioned Rs 63.63 crore to Tamil Nadu under the Centrally sponsored Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme of Rajiv Gandhi National Drinking Water Mission.

The sanctioned amount was balance of the first instalment of the funds against the provisional allocation of Rs 190.90 crore allotted to the state under the programme, official sources here today informed.

While 15 per cent of the amount may be utilised for operation and maintenance, five per cent for taking sustainability measures.

The Centre was keen that the schemes should be implemented only through Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRI).

The purpose of the scheme, according to the Union Ministry of Rural Development, was to provide safe drinking water facilities to rural habitations and schools.

Meanwhile, the state government had prepared a priority list of Panchayats for allotment of funds under the programme.

Funds would be released to Panchayats concerned through respective district administrations for early implementation of the schemes, the sources added.

UNI