Assam concerned on cut in Central funds

Assam government today said it was "concerned" over gradual cut in central assistance to the state, but asserted that it would not move back to "darker days" prior to 2001.
Replying to discussions on the state budget for 2015-16 in the Assembly, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi sought help from all stakeholders, including MLAs, public and media, in dealing with the problem.
"We got Rs 3,000 crore less amount in current fiscal from the Centre. So naturally my speed (of growth) will decrease. In the latest budget also, I got Rs 2,000 crore less. We are concerned. Everyone wants more funds, but it is going down.

"During UPA tenure also, I told that I needed extra funds. Forget about increase in funds, now we are getting lesser than what we were getting earlier. It is a matter of concern," he added.
Gogoi, who also holds the Finance portfolio, said the Union government was not giving due importance to flood and erosion problems of the state.
"They are gradually cutting funds for many sectors. Problems may arise out of this. But whatever be the problem, we'll not go back to darker days prior to 2001 with no salary, no investment and no development," he said.
Gogoi also criticised the Centre over uncertainties in releasing the funds to the states.

"Now we do not know how much funds we will get. We are planning only on the basis of an assumption and estimation. Earlier, we were informed about our share," he added.