Residents of Lamalong village, Ri Bhoi district have alleged misappropriation of funds under the Watershed Development Component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY 2.0).
A complaint was made to Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal by the residents who stated that funds’ amounting to Rs 1.41 crore was withdrawn but beneficiaries have not received the money.
WDC-PMKSY 2.0 is a project that aims to improve the ecological integrity of watersheds while providing economic opportunities for communities. The centrally sponsored scheme aims to develop degraded and rainfed areas of the country, by undertaking watershed development projects in an integrated approach.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, the residents said they had obtained information through the RTI that the funds under the scheme had already been withdrawn and alleged severe corruption involving village leaders and those in authority.
They said the scheme, which is designed to assist residents in improving agriculture, irrigation facilities, and other related activities, has been manipulated in such a way that only the favourites of those in authority were registered as beneficiaries.
The residents have urged the deputy commissioner to inquire into the matter.
Baranwal assured that he would initiate an inquiry and seek detailed information from the concerned department and take corrective measures.
