Govt resumes negotiations with Centre on RDF dues
The government has started renegotiating with the Centre for getting its Rural Development Fund (RDF) dues, besides being keen on an “out of court” settlement to get Rs 8,000-crore pending funds.
Finance Minister Harpal Cheema and Food and Supply Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak met Union Food Minister Prahlad Joshi last night, seeking the release of state’s RDF dues.
The Centre has reportedly also repeated its offer of giving 2% of the MSP as RDF, against the state’s demand of 3%, which was being given to it till 2022.
The government had moved the SC last year, seeking the release of its pending RDF dues and a part of market fee. “We are not withdrawing our case from the Supreme Court, but are seeking interim relief. We are amenable to go in for out-of-court settlement with the Centre, if it accepts our plea to release the pending dues,” Kataruchak said.
Meanwhile, the minister announced that keeping interests of depot holders in mind, their margin money had been increased to almost double after 8 years. “In 2016, the margin money was Rs 50 per quintal, which has been increased to Rs 90 per quintal and the increase has been implemented from April 2024. A sum of Rs 38.43 crore stands released in that regard,” he said.
Regarding the issue of opening more ration depots in the state, the minister said the task was under process and applications for new ration depots could be made till December.
