Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Sikkim received the first instalment of XV Finance Commission Untied Grants totaling ₹643.50 lakh for FY 2025‑26, allocated to 5 District Panchayats and 199 Gram Panchayats. Additionally, ₹17.50 lakh from the withheld portion of FY 2024‑25 was released to one eligible District Panchayat. These grants are intended to empower local bodies to address their priority needs, excluding salaries and establishment costs. The funding strengthens decentralized governance, enabling Panchayats to plan and execute development projects based on local requirements, thereby enhancing grassroots democracy and ensuring efficient use of resources in rural areas.