Sat Feb 22 04:32:22 UTC 2025: ## Uttarakhand Government Accused of Misusing Millions in Funds, CAG Report Reveals

**Dehradun, [Date]** – A damning report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has exposed massive financial irregularities within the Uttarakhand government, alleging the misuse of crores of rupees in various departments. The report, tabled in the Uttarakhand Assembly yesterday during the Budget Session, highlights significant discrepancies in the Forest, Health, and Workers Welfare Board departments.

The CAG found that the Workers Welfare Board spent a staggering ₹607 crore between 2017 and 2021 without obtaining necessary government approvals. Furthermore, the report details the misappropriation of nearly ₹14 crore from the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), intended for forest conservation. Instead of being used for afforestation, these funds were allegedly diverted to purchase items like laptops, refrigerators, and coolers, building renovations, and even legal expenses.

The audit also revealed significant delays in compensatory afforestation projects, with 37 cases taking over eight years to complete, despite CAMPA guidelines stipulating completion within one to two growing seasons. The selection of land for these projects was also flagged as improper. The report further criticizes the violation of forest land transfer rules, noting that work commenced on 52 projects between 2014 and 2022 without the required Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) permission, despite central government approval. The survival rate of planted trees was also alarmingly low at 33%, far below the mandated 60-65%.

The CAG report also uncovered serious issues within the state’s healthcare system. At least three government hospitals were found to possess stocks of 34 expired medicines, some dating back over two years. The report further highlighted the critical shortage of specialist doctors, with 70% of specialist posts vacant in hilly areas and 50% in plains. Additionally, 250 doctors were allowed to continue their service despite violating lockdown regulations.

The Congress party has seized upon the report’s findings, accusing the government of blatant mismanagement of public funds. Uttarakhand Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal has responded by ordering an internal investigation into the matters concerning his department. The report has sparked significant controversy and raised serious questions about the accountability and transparency within the Uttarakhand government.

Read More