Chief Minister Naidu Directs Complete Utilization of Central Funds by January 15; Sets Ambitious Target of ₹30,000 crore

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday expressed serious concern over the underutilization of CSS funds and set clear directives for immediate action.

Speaking at the Collectors' Conference, he emphasized, "On one side, we are suffering due to lack of money, and on the other, we are not able to spend CSS money properly. We must utilize this opportunity." He specifically mentioned that Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has assured an additional allocation of Rs 1,200 crore, and set a firm deadline of January 15 for spending the available PMAY Urban funds.

"In the coming weeks, we'll withdraw another Rs 1,200 crore and further some more," the Chief Minister stated, directing the Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and all Collectors to prioritize this task.The Chief Minister issued a strong directive to complete all CSS fund utilization by January 15 and prepare for withdrawing the next installment. "No compromise on spending the central money. Every single rupee should be spent," he emphasized. He set an ambitious target of Rs 30,000 crore and asked all Secretaries to finalize the budget for the next year. "Raise to the occasion and drive it," he told the Collectors, urging them to be proactive in utilizing available funds.

Senior IAS officer Dr. Ronald Rose also drew attention to unclaimed deposits in government accounts. He informed that around 10,750 government accounts hold approximately Rs 155 crore in unclaimed deposits across 26 districts, with Prakasam district having the highest amount of Rs 10.57 crore. District Collectors have been requested to update KYC documents, close dormant accounts, and address issues with undelivered cheque books to prevent fraudulent activities. The Chief Minister also asked Collectors to explore if there’s an opportunity to give interest to these amounts that languished in the bank accounts for a long time.

The Chief Minister directed Collectors to expedite civil works by calling construction companies and agencies once every ten days. "If they still don't respond for weeks, keep them on the blacklist," he instructed. He also emphasized the need for all Heads of Departments to complete their audits as soon as possible.