The Government of Assam has announced the appointment of Lieutenant General Rana Pratap Kalita (retd) as the Chairman of the Seventh Assam State Finance Commission. The appointment, made official today, includes the induction of six additional members to the Commission.
The Seventh State Finance Commission has been tasked with a crucial role by the Government of Assam’s Finance Department. Its primary responsibilities include:
- Distribution of Taxes and Duties: Providing recommendations on the principles that will govern the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes and duties levied and collected between the State of Assam and the Panchayats and Municipalities.
- Enhancement of Financial Positions: Suggesting measures necessary to improve the financial positions of the Panchayats and Municipalities.
- Devolution and Grant-in-Aid: Offering recommendations on devolution and grant-in-aid for the Local Bodies of the three Autonomous Councils under the Sixth Schedule during the appraisal of the resources of the Local Governments.
- Additional Matters: Addressing any other matters referred to the State Finance Commission by the Governor in the interest of the Panchayats and Municipalities.
The Commission’s recommendations are anticipated to have significant implications for local governance and financial distribution across Assam. The final report is to be submitted to the Governor of Assam by December 16, 2024. This comprehensive report will outline recommendations for a five-year period starting from April 1, 2025.
The formation of the Seventh State Finance Commission marks a pivotal step in ensuring equitable financial management and resource distribution among local governing bodies in Assam, promising a strengthened financial structure for Panchayats and Municipalities.
The names of the six newly appointed members of the Commission have yet to be disclosed.
