Srinagar, June 13: In a glaring instance of official apathy, the State Education Department is not making any efforts to withdraw financial assistance to the tune of Rs 11 crores under the flagship Sakshar Bharat Mission. This is notwithstanding an earlier lapse of crores of rupees under the adult education scheme.
 According to official sources, the Department is supposed to withdraw Rs 11 crores as central share under Sakshar Bharat Mission through an online transaction mechanism. But, they said, it is not making the transaction allegedly in the wake of its failure to understand how to do the same.
 “The scheme is meant for up-gradation of adult education in the state. But it has been an utter failure because of the Department’s failure to make online transaction, which involves a particular procedure to be followed,” the sources disclosed. “We have already had a lapse of huge amount of money under this important scheme.”
 According to sources, the Government of India has also asked the state government to transact the lapsed amount to give necessary push to the scheme on ground. “The state government has been granting its share under the scheme. However it is insufficient to give necessary push to it. The volunteers who have already been engaged to work under the scheme are not being paid the necessary dues in the wake of huge liability due to non withdrawal of central share,” the sources said. “If the Education Department ensures timely transaction of money, the flagship scheme could give a huge fillip to the adult education sector. But sadly, it seems to be disinterested in doing so.”
 According to officials, the SBM scheme has “the strength to create almost 6000 jobs in the state in 2500 Panchayats and 2700 Gram Panchayats.” But, they said, “The sluggish approach of the Department and continuous lapse of funds is marring the scheme, thereby jeopardizing career of thousands of students.”
 ‘Will look into it’
 When contacted, the Commissioner/Secretary, School Education Farooq Ahmad Faktoo said “I don’t have the details on the issue right now. However I would look into the matter.”

Lastupdate on : Wed, 13 Jun 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 13 Jun 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 IST