Kishan Reddy hails Centre’s ₹619.85 crore grant for Telangana Panchayats

Hyderabad: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy hailed the Centre’s release of ₹619.85 crore to Telangana’s Gram Panchayats and called it a major boost for rural infrastructure.

He said the Centre released the amount as the first instalment for 2025–26. Moreover, he noted that the allocation follows the 15th Finance Commission guidelines.

Out of the total, ₹371.91 crore will support sanitation, water supply and infrastructure. Meanwhile, ₹247.94 crore will meet local needs under untied grants.

Kishan Reddy highlights Centre’s rural funding support

Kishan Reddy said states must transfer the funds within 10 days. Otherwise, they will have to pay interest.

In addition, he said, states should provide matching grants to ensure effective implementation.

Highlighting past allocations, Kishan Reddy said Telangana received ₹14,110 crore under the 14th and 15th Finance Commissions.

Furthermore, he added that the Centre will provide more funds under the upcoming 16th Finance Commission.

However, he clarified that the Centre releases funds only after receiving utilisation certificates.

He also pointed out that the State government managed Panchayats through Special Officers for two years without conducting elections.

Going forward, he said the Centre will continue to release funds regularly. Therefore, he urged the State to submit utilisation certificates on time.