SIKKIM: Dr. Kelkar to ensure justice is given to Sikkim by 13th Finance Commission

FROM SIKKIM EXPRESS

GANGTOK, August 27: The 13th Finance Commission has assured all help will be given to Sikkim.

The commission chairman, Dr. Vijay Kelkar assured all help to Sikkim during a meeting with Sikkim Lok Sabha member PD Rai.

An IPR release informs that Dr. Kelkar also congratulated Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party for making significant progress on development and political fronts.

During the meeting with Mr. Rai, the commission chairman stressed the need to do more to alleviate the debt issues of the State. He also extended all possible help regarding the core financial and fiscal issues of the State.

Dr. Kelkar reminded the MP the need to place before the 13th Finance Commission the special need on economic security arising in the State because of the closure of the only artery to Sikkim the NH 31A due to political and environmental reasons.

To this, Mr. Rai said that he would see that this is sent forthwith to the commission.

During the meeting, the Sikkim MP Mr. Rai apprised chairman of the need to see that the award this time of the Commission toward Sikkim is a just and fair one. He related the need to see that Sikkim receive justice in making up for the poor award last time around which has put huge amount of fiscal pressure. He said that it, the 12th Finance Commission, did not take the State’s special position in mind.
Mr. Rai was earlier briefed by the State Finance Department.

Mr. Rai reminded Dr. Kelkar of the special needs of the State in alignment with the Article 371 F of the Constitution of India. He also stressed the fact that the State was on course to develop faster. He spoke to Dr. Kelkar about the vision of the Chief Minister and giving huge priority to imparting high quality education and skill development.

The chairman appreciated the overall progress in comparison to several other States, the release informs.