Audit Uncovers Mismanagement in Uttarakhand's Afforestation Funds

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) highlighted significant mismanagement in Uttarakhand's compensatory afforestation funds. The report cited fund diversions, unauthorized land use, and delayed afforestation efforts. Ineffective planning and unrealistic fund releases were also criticized. Recommendations include stronger internal controls and financial management to prevent future misuse.

The latest audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India has exposed alarming mismanagement within compensatory afforestation funds in Uttarakhand's forest divisions. Funds meant for environmental restoration were reportedly diverted to a range of inadmissible activities, resulting in cost escalations and project delays.

The report, tabled in the Uttarakhand Assembly, detailed that Rs 13.86 crore was misallocated towards non-essential projects such as state schemes, personal visits, and unauthorized purchases. This misuse of resources highlights gaps in oversight and financial governance within the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).

Further examination revealed inefficiencies in fund disbursements and compliance failures, with proposed afforestation often postponed for years. The CAG has urged the state's financial officials to tighten procedural controls, prioritizing transparency and accountability to prevent recurrence of these lapses.