Generate funds through begging: Home Minister

The financial situation of the state has deteriorated to such an extent that cash-strapped Democratic Front (DF) may soon have to spread their hands in front of big corporate houses and other private firms for donations to meet the expenses. Currently, the most hard-hit due to lack of funds are the 10 districts that are reeling under a severe water-scarcity in the state.

RR Patil

Coming down heavily against the improper management of funds, Home Minister R R Patil asked his cabinet colleagues to go and beg for money and generate funds as the state kitty had failed to gather the amount needed to meet requirements.

According to sources, Patil took digs at the finance department headed by his party colleague Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in the weekly meeting of the State Cabinet. "Why make financial provisions when the department has failed to release the required amount," asked a furious Patil. The water-scarcity situation prevailing in 10 districts was the main topic of discussion in the meeting that lasted for over two-and-a-half hours.

Reeling under severe financial crunch, the state had approached the Centre for a loan of Rs 10,000 crore but, two days ago, the Centre approved the selling of government bonds worth only Rs 1,500 crore to raise funds. However, according to sources, the amount is too less to deal with the drought-like situation prevailing in the state. As a solution, Patil asked the government to request corporate sectors, entrepreneurs, and the salaried class to donate generously.u00a0