Assam CM urges for Central funds to accelerate growth

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today urged the Centre to conti-nue with the special state status funding so that the state can grow at an accelerated rate, while also asserting that his govern-ment will ensure develop-ment of the state even if the Centre cuts back funding.
Replying to the debate on Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s address in the Assembly, Mr Gogoi said, “There has been improve-ment in the state in the last 13 years. If the Centre continues with granting more funds, the state will grow at an accelerated rate. Even if special funding is cut, Assam will still grow, albeit at a slower rate.”
With the Centre changing funding pattern in some schemes from 90:10 (Centre-:state share) to more share from the state govern-ment, indications are rife that the special state status of Assam with regards to 90:10 Centre : State funding would be changed.Making a case for continuing with special state status for Assam,  Gogoi said, “The state does not want any confrontation with the Centre. I personally share good rapport with the Central ministers. But it will not stop me from pressing for more funds from the Centre.”(UNI)