Bhubaneswar, August 10: Panchayats will receive double the amount of funds as per the recommendations of the Fifth State Finance Commission (SFC).

The Finance Commission has also recommended providing funds to block and district councils. The state government has decided to implement these recommendations.

According to the decision, the funds will be allocated to Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis and Zilla Parishads. The recommendations of the Finance Commission aim to strengthen the functioning and development activities of local bodies.

The government has also directed that the funds be utilised for development-related activities. However, the funds cannot be used for religious activities, the purchase of vehicles, or the payment of salaries.

Key points:

• Funds cannot be used for religious activities, purchase of vehicles or payment of salaries.
• August 15 has been fixed as the deadline for uploading the GPDP (Gram Panchayat Development Plan).
• Funds will also be provided to block and district-level bodies.