In a remarkable feat under the transformative 5T initiative, the Department of Finance in Odisha has achieved transparency and efficiency in disbursing Rs 18,708 crore through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode across various schemes and programs. Spearheaded by Mr. Vishal Dev, Principal Secretary Finance, a comprehensive review of DBT Operations revealed the seamless distribution of funds through 6.84 crore transactions until November of the ongoing financial year 2023-24.
This substantial amount has been disbursed to beneficiaries through 25 programs and 61 schemes, including Central schemes, as part of the government’s commitment to enhancing citizen welfare.
In the preceding financial year 2022-23, a total of Rs 25,903 crore was transferred through DBT, followed by Rs 20,096 crore disbursed in 2021-22. The current fiscal year has seen the highest fund disbursement of Rs 5,075 crore under the MGNREGA scheme, benefitting 3,46,1,301 beneficiaries. The Rural Housing scheme closely follows, with Rs 5,181 crore disbursed to 2,74,6,754 beneficiaries through DBT.
Other notable disbursements include Rs 2,809 crore directly transferred to the accounts of 1,66,0,079 farmers under paddy procurement, Rs 1,989 crore under Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY), Rs 1,786 crore under the KALIA scheme, Rs 218 crore under the Kendu Leaf program, and Rs 197 crore under farm mechanization subsidy.
The government’s commitment to the welfare of students is evident in the disbursement of Rs 285 crore under SC, ST scholarship schemes, Rs 428 crore under the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP), Rs 199 crore under the National Health Mission (NHM), and Rs 179 crore under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) Urban.
This fiscal year also witnessed DBT disbursements under various schemes, such as Biju Yuva Sashaktikaran Yojana, Mukhyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana, Higher Education Department scholarship, Input Subsidy, Women and Child Development, Fisheries Development State Plan, Animal Resources Development State Plan, Swachh Bharat Mission, and DAY-NULM.
The DBT initiative, launched on January 1, 2013, aims to reform the government delivery system, ensuring a simpler and faster flow of information and funds. The first phase began in 43 districts, expanding to 78 more districts and covering 27 schemes related to scholarships, women, child, and labor welfare. The nationwide expansion on December 12, 2014, has demonstrated the positive impact of DBT in curbing corruption, reducing leakages, and increasing coverage, thereby aligning with the overarching goals of the 5T initiative in Odisha.
Prasanta Patnaik