16th Finance Commission ends visit in northeast India

It addressed unique needs, expectations and financial landscape

IH News Desk

REGIONAL, November 05, 2024: The 16th Finance Commission led by Chairman Dr Arvind Panagariya Tuesday held a press conference in Kohima, Nagaland, marking the 10th state in the commission's nationwide tour. During the visit, the commission addressed the unique needs and expectations of the state, including its economic and financial landscape.

The commission's responsibilities include advising on the vertical and horizontal devolution of resources, making recommendations for grants to local bodies and providing disaster relief grants. 

The Chairman highlighted the main demands of the state, which included the inclusion of cesses and surcharges in the divisible pool, an increase in the weightage given to the state's forest cover in the horizontal distribution, and the incorporation of a "disability index" to address the challenges of the state's hilly terrain. 

The commission was also requested to consider Capital Deficit Grants to support capital projects and project-specific grants for infrastructure development. 

Throughout the visit, the commission held several meetings with the Chief Minister, his cabinet and senior officials from Urban Local Bodies, Rural Local Bodies, political parties, and representatives from Trade, Industries and Commerce.

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