THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, February 25: Jharkhand Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore on Wednesday challenged the Centre to send a team to investigate fund utilisation if it had any doubts, while responding to the Budget discussion in the Assembly.
Speaking during the Jharkhand Assembly budget session, Kishore said both the ruling and opposition parties must work towards the state’s development, emphasising that serving the people remains the foremost responsibility of public representatives.
‘Send a Team If You Have Doubts’
Targeting the Central government over the issue of Utilisation Certificates, the Finance Minister said the Centre was free to conduct a probe. He alleged that Jharkhand’s rightful financial share was being withheld for political reasons.
“If there are questions regarding Utilisation Certificates, the Centre should send its team and investigate,” he said.
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Budget Allocation for 2026–27
Detailing the provisions of the 2026–27 Jharkhand Budget, Kishore said ₹67,459 crore has been earmarked for the social sector, ₹59,440 crore for the economic sector and ₹3,255 crore for the general sector.
He said the government’s focus remains on welfare schemes for the poor and ensuring access to education for children across the state.
Agriculture Output and Audit Probe
Highlighting production figures, he said the state produced 5 million metric tonnes of paddy and 1 million metric tonnes of pulses this year. Jharkhand has achieved self-sufficiency in fish production, while milk output has also recorded growth.
The Finance Minister also announced the formation of a committee headed by the State Development Commissioner to monitor the implementation of budget announcements.
He further stated that a thorough investigation would be conducted into the ₹10,000 crore audit case, and strict action would be taken in instances of irregularities in District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds.
Defending the Chief Minister’s foreign visits, Kishore said international engagement was crucial to attracting investment and boosting Jharkhand’s economic development.