BJP MP demands hike in MPLAD fund from Rs 5 cr to Rs 25 cr

A BJP member's demand that the annual amount of MP Local Area Development fund be raised from the current Rs 5 crore to Rs 25 crore or the scheme be scrapped altogether drew wide support in the Lok Sabha today.
Raising the issue during the Zero Hour, Sushil Kumar Singh said the amount of Rs 5 crore was inadequate in meeting the rising developmental demands of people.
He also cited rising costs of construction works as a reason for hiking the MPLAD fund saying the amount was decided years back and was no longer sufficient.
"The scheme allows us to quickly redress the grievances of the people and meet their expectations. I will urge the government to raise the money to Rs 25 crore so that developmental works can be done as per people's aspirations.

"Or this scheme should be scrapped so that we are spared criticism and embarrassment," Singh said as he drew support from members of several parties.