The Centre informed the Rajya Sabha that the previous YSRCP government did not fully utilise SASCI funds released to Andhra Pradesh, according to a reply to TDP MP Sana Satish Babu.
New Delhi: TDP Rajya Sabha MP Shri Sana Satish Babu has brought the issue of Andhra Pradesh's utilisation of Central funds under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) into focus by raising it in the Rajya Sabha. In its official reply, the Union Ministry of Finance revealed that the previous YSRCP government did not fully utilise the funds released by the Centre during its tenure, leaving nearly Rs. 1,294 crore unspent despite substantial allocations for capital investment.
According to the Ministry of Finance, Andhra Pradesh was sanctioned Rs. 19,707.19 crore under the SASCI scheme between 2020-21 and 2024-25. Out of this, the Centre released Rs. 19,287.72 crore to the State Government. However, official data submitted to Parliament revealed that only Rs. 17,993.75 crore was utilised during the period, indicating that nearly Rs. 1,294 crore of the released funds remained unutilised under the previous YSRCP government.
The Ministry's reply further highlighted that fund utilisation improved significantly after the NDA coalition government assumed office in Andhra Pradesh. During the 2024-25 financial year, the State utilised nearly 90% of the Rs. 7,901.56 crore released by the Centre under the SASCI scheme, reflecting improved implementation and execution of capital investment projects.
The Centre also informed Parliament that the highest allocations under the SASCI scheme in Andhra Pradesh were made to the Irrigation & Water Resources, Education, Health, Roads & Buildings, and Urban & Housing sectors, which are critical to the State's infrastructure and development.
Shri Sana Satish Babu said the Union Government's reply underscores the importance of ensuring timely and effective utilisation of Central assistance meant for infrastructure creation and public welfare. He stated that optimal utilisation of such funds is essential to accelerate development, strengthen public infrastructure, and maximise the benefits of Central schemes for the people of Andhra Pradesh.
