The Tamil Nadu government on Monday clarified that the sum of ₹1,540 crore from the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP), included in the total allocation of ₹7,000 crore for the implementation of Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam (Rights Grant for Women) during 2023-24, “could be spent only for the Scheduled Castes” beneficiaries.
Acknowledging the allocation of ₹1,540 crore from the SCSP in the overall allocation of ₹7,000 crore for the implementation of the scheme during 2023-24, a press release from the State government contended: “Funds have been earmarked separately in the total allocation to ensure the Scheduled Castes are not left out in the scheme and that the benefits of the scheme reached them.”
It also pointed out that the allocation of funds to the SCSP, which was ₹13,680 crore during the Tamil Nadu Budget 2020-21, was increased to ₹17,076 crore during 2023-24. Recalling an announcement in the Assembly that a legislation would be enacted to ensure efficient spending from the SCSP, the release said consultations in this regard were being undertaken with all stakeholders. “A special section would be created in the Finance Department to monitor the spending of SCSP.”
