Daily Current Affairs : 24-June-2024
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) recently organized a two-day training workshop for the revised fund flow procedure under the MPLAD (Member of Parliament Local Area Development) Scheme. The training focused on using the e-SAKSHI Portal, an important tool for enhancing transparency and efficiency in implementing the MPLAD scheme. This initiative aims to streamline the process, making it more accessible and accountable.
What is the e-SAKSHI Portal?
The e-SAKSHI Portal is a digital platform designed to provide a comprehensive solution for the effective management and implementation of the MPLAD scheme. It serves as an end-to-end tool that simplifies the entire fund flow process—from fund allocation to tracking and reporting. The portal ensures greater transparency and accountability, enabling quicker and more accurate financial transactions. By using this portal, the Ministry hopes to improve the management of funds, reduce delays, and ensure that the allocated resources are utilized efficiently for community development.
About MPLAD Scheme
The MPLAD scheme is a Central Sector Scheme introduced by the Government of India. Its primary objective is to empower Members of Parliament (MPs) to undertake developmental works in their constituencies. Below are some key details about the MPLAD scheme:
- Type: Central Sector Scheme
- Ministry: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
- Fund Allocation: Each MP is allocated Rs. 5 crore per year to develop durable community assets based on local needs.
- Non-lapsable Funds: The funds allocated under MPLAD are non-lapsable, meaning any unspent balance is carried forward to the next year.
- Target Allocations:
- At least 15% of the funds must be directed towards projects in Scheduled Caste areas.
- At least 7.5% must be allocated for Scheduled Tribe areas.
Importance of the Revised Fund Flow Procedure
The revised fund flow procedure, introduced through the e-SAKSHI portal, aims to address common challenges in the MPLAD scheme, such as delays in fund disbursal and the lack of transparency. By training MPs and their staff on how to use the portal effectively, the Ministry ensures that funds are utilized efficiently, and projects are completed on time. The goal is to ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most, and that the intended beneficiaries—especially those in marginalized communities—benefit from these development programs.
Important Points:
MoSPI Workshop: A two-day training workshop was organized to introduce the revised fund flow procedure under the MPLAD scheme, using the e-SAKSHI Portal.
e-SAKSHI Portal: A digital platform designed to improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability in managing the MPLAD scheme. It streamlines the entire process from fund allocation to tracking.
Key Features of e-SAKSHI:
- Simplifies fund flow management.
- Enables quicker and more accurate financial transactions.
- Helps reduce delays and ensures efficient utilization of funds.
MPLAD Scheme Overview:
- A Central Sector Scheme launched by the Government of India.
- Allocates Rs. 5 crore per MP annually for developmental works.
- Focuses on creating durable community assets based on local needs.
Fund Allocation Details:
- Non-lapsable Funds: Unspent funds are carried forward to the next year.
- Targeted Allocations:
- 15% of the funds for Scheduled Caste areas.
- 7.5% for Scheduled Tribe areas.
Objective of Revised Fund Flow Procedure: To address challenges like delays in fund disbursement and lack of transparency in the MPLAD scheme.
Training and Impact: MPs and their staff were trained to effectively use the e-SAKSHI Portal, ensuring funds are utilized efficiently and projects are completed on time.
Why In News
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) organized a two-day training workshop to familiarize MPs and their staff with the revised fund flow procedure under the MPLAD Scheme, using the e-SAKSHI Portal to ensure greater transparency and efficiency in fund management. This initiative aims to enhance the implementation process by providing a more streamlined and accountable way to manage the allocated funds.
MCQs about e-SAKSHI Portal
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What is the main purpose of the e-SAKSHI Portal in the MPLAD Scheme?
A. To provide loans to Members of Parliament (MPs)
B. To streamline the fund flow process and improve transparency
C. To allocate funds for MP salaries
D. To monitor political campaigns
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Which of the following is a target allocation requirement under the MPLAD Scheme?
A. 10% of funds for urban development
B. 15% of funds for Scheduled Caste areas
C. 30% of funds for education projects
D. 5% of funds for health initiatives
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What is a key benefit of the revised fund flow procedure introduced through the e-SAKSHI Portal?
A. Reducing the workload of MPs
B. Ensuring faster election results
C. Improving fund utilization and project completion
D. Increasing the number of community projects
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