Fix responsibility for non-establishment of model schools in J&K: CAG

A scheme was launched in November 2008 with the objective of having at least one good quality secondary school (Model School) in every educationally backward block (EBB)

Taking a serious note of non-establishment of model schools in Jammu and Kashmir in the past 10 years despite availability of ₹44.13 crore, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has asked the State government to refund the unspent funds and fix responsibility. In its J&K report on Social, General, Economic and Revenue for the year ending March 31, 2019 tabled in Parliament recently, the CAG said the failure of the education department to take timely action for utilisation of funds received from the Centre deprived quality education to the intended beneficiaries. “The matter was referred to the department/government in May 2020; their replies were awaited [September 2020]. The State Government may ensure that unspent amount along with interest accrued thereon may be refunded in accordance with conditions laid down in the sanction order of Ministry of Human Resources Development and responsibility fixed for non establishment of model schools,” the CAG said.