Uttarakhand seeks Rs 11,150 cr central assistance

Uttarakhand has sought a central assistance of over Rs 11,150 crore for various projects, state finance minister Prakash Pant said today after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi here.
Pant told reporters that he apprised the prime minister of the state's current financial condition and demanded a special package of Rs 10,490 crore for providing drinking water and improving sewerage system.
Pant said he also sought assistance of Rs 300 crore for building toilets in the state, besides Rs 250 crore for projects related to water conservation and improving the ground water level.
When asked about the response of Modi to his demands, Pant said the prime minister guided him on various issues.

The minister said he briefed the prime minister about various initiatives taken by the state government in agriculture sector, including providing loan at subsidised rates to farmers.
Pant said he also highlighted the need for improving air connectivity to the state for promoting tourism sector. He also sought investment in medical tourism.
He also sought support in payment of Rs 110 crore to cane growers and for upkeep of sugar factories.