Tricity
NITI Aayog meeting: Mann seeks special category status for state, financial package for border areas
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann urges NITI Aayog to grant Punjab special category status and a 90:10 funding ratio for centrally sponsored schemes, similar to hill and northeastern states.
During a recent NITI Aayog meeting, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann raised the demand that Punjab be accorded special category status. He argued that the state should receive a 90:10 funding ratio under all centrally sponsored schemes, a formula currently applied to hill states, northeastern states and Jammu & Kashmir.
The special category status is intended to provide enhanced financial support to regions that face geographical and developmental challenges. By adopting the same 90:10 funding arrangement, Mann said Punjab would receive a larger share of central assistance, helping to address the unique demands of its border areas.
Border regions across India have long sought comparable financial incentives to cope with remoteness, limited infrastructure and other constraints. Mann’s request aligns with similar demands from states that share comparable geographic and administrative characteristics.
NITI Aayog, the government’s policy think‑tank, plays a key role in evaluating and recommending such status changes. Its recommendations are considered by the central government when finalising financial allocations for states.
The demand underscores a broader conversation about equitable funding formulas and the need to recognise the distinct challenges faced by border and remote regions. If accepted, the special category status could influence the distribution of resources for development projects, health services and education in Punjab.
Source: Hindustan Times
