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Rs. 2,335 crores outlay fixed

By Our Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI JUNE 27. The 2003-04 Annual Plan outlay for Chhattisgarh was fixed at Rs.2,335 crores at a meeting between the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, K.C. Pant, and the State Chief Minister, Ajit Jogi, here today. This includes Rs.18.87 crores for priority schemes of the State.

During the discussions, Mr. Pant said Chhattisgarh had made a slight improvement in its own resources during the last financial year due to the improved contribution of balance from current revenue by Rs.47.64 crores. However, there was a shortfall in expenditure.

Mr. Pant said efforts should be made to encourage handicrafts, tourism and private sector participation in mining and allied industries. The State Government should create infrastructure, research and development and marketing network for handicrafts. It should create a conducive environment of exploration and eco-friendly exploitation of vast reserves of important minerals. Ancient monuments, rare wildlife, exquisitely-carved temples, caves and hill plateaus have great potential for attracting tourists.

Mr. Pant suggested that the State take necessary steps for increasing productivity of paddy, wheat, maize and gram as it was much below the national average. Upward revision of water rates to cover operation and maintenance expenses was also recommended. In the health sector, the State was advised to overcome the handicap of difficult terrain by filling gaps in health-care infrastructure at all levels. The State was complimented for higher utilisation of funds in rural development schemes. The Chief Minister drew the attention of the Commission to the problems being faced by the State on account of drought and difficult terrain. He said the thrust of the State Government was on drought proofing and improving irrigation facilities.

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