A recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has revealed the misallocation of over Rs 167 crore of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds by the Madhya Pradesh government. The funds, meant for afforestation activities, were diverted to ineligible activities, including agro forestry schemes, infrastructure development, and research projects.
Misallocation of Funds: The Madhya Pradesh government allocated Rs 167.83 crore of CAMPA funds to ineligible activities, resulting in irregular expenditure and misuse of funds.
Violation of Guidelines: The CAG found that the expenditures on these activities were against CAMPA guidelines, despite the state government's claim of compliance.
Expenditure Details: The funds were spent on various activities, including agro forestry schemes, construction projects, research, and infrastructure development.
Commercial Plantations: The state CEO of CAMPA disbursed Rs 29.58 crore for teak plantations, violating CAMPA guidelines.
Repeated Weed Eradication: The report highlighted unwarranted expenditure on the eradication of weeds at the Nauradehi Wildlife Division, with the same activity being repeated multiple times within a short period.
CAG Observations: The CAG observed that weed eradication programs should only be repeated if they adversely impact wildlife habitat, raising concerns about the justification for the repeated expenditures.
Overall, the report underscores the need for better oversight and adherence to guidelines in the allocation and utilization of forest funds to ensure effective conservation and afforestation efforts in Madhya Pradesh.
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