Independent Groups to Monitor Progress in MCDs

Patna: July 5, 2008

At a seminar jointly organized by the Al-Khair Charitable Trust, Lok Parishad, and the Bihar Rabita Committee at IMA Hall in Patna on Saturday, prominent Muslim social workers discussed the Central government's Minority Concentration Districts (MCDs) scheme and how to ensure complete accountability and transparency in it for maximum economic mileage.

As reported, under the MCD scheme, the Union government has identified 7 districts in Bihar with minority concentration in excess of 20% where it would invest Rs. 523 crore in various developmental purposes including education, hygiene, home construction, drinking water, electricity and other amenities.

"We are not going to allow the government officials to completely take over the project as it would only mean waste of resources, delay in projects, and possible misappropriation of funds. The public would have to become an active partner in this scheme if expected results are to be achieved," said Al-Khair Charitable Trust chairperson Arshad Azmal.

The seven districts that have been identified in Bihar under MCD scheme are Kishanganj with Rs. 87.9 crore investment plan, Purnia (85.5 crore), Araria (81.9 crore), Katihar (82.6 crore), Sitamarhi (67.8 crore), West Champaran (58.6 crore), and Darbhanga (59.7 crore).

"Close monitoring with active public participation would be of immense importance if substantial results are to be expected in these districts," Prof. Ghulam Gaus, RJD, said.