Decline in MPLADS Funds:
The latest data by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) indicates a decline in the total funds released by the central government for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) compared to the 16th Lok Sabha (2014-2019).
Key Highlights of the MoSPI Data on MPLADS:
- The MPLADS funds for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) totaled Rs 4,510 crore, a 65.2% decline from the 16th Lok Sabha, primarily due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- In the 14th Lok Sabha, MPLADS funds saw 102% utilization, while the 16th and 17th Lok Sabhas recorded 99% and 98% utilization, respectively.
- MPs from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal received the highest MPLADS funds, while those from Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab received the lowest.
- During the 17th Lok Sabha period, Rs 1679 crore were allocated to infrastructure (railways, roads, bridges), followed by other public facilities and education.
- MPLADS is a Central Sector Scheme introduced in 1993 that enables the Members of Parliaments (MP) to recommend developmental work in their constituencies with an emphasis on creating durable community assets based on locally felt needs.
