MP Vikram Sahney flags unspent funds, seeks accountability in Rs 162 lakh core Appropriation Bill
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, March 23, 2026: Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney on Monday raised concerns over underutilisation of funds while speaking on the Finance Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament, calling for greater accountability in the allocation of ₹162 lakh crore across ministries for 2026–27.
Sahney stressed that while the allocation is substantial, the real challenge lies in ensuring effective utilisation on the ground. In the backdrop of global geopolitical tensions and rising fuel prices, he said the Union Budget must act as a “shield” for citizens.
Proposing a governance framework of F.A.S.T. — Funds Allocated, Spent and Tracked, he emphasized the need to bridge the gap between policy announcements and actual delivery. He also suggested quarterly implementation reviews across ministries and the creation of dedicated Farmer and Youth Commissions.
Highlighting sector-wise concerns, Sahney pointed to underutilisation in key areas such as agriculture, education, and employment. He noted that the agriculture budget has seen only a marginal increase over the past two years, which effectively translates into a cut when adjusted for inflation. In education, he flagged that significant funds under major schemes remained unspent despite millions of children being out of school.
On employment, Sahney said that flagship initiatives like Startup India, Stand Up India, and Make in India have yet to deliver strong ground-level impact, with manufacturing still contributing around 16% to GDP and most Mudra loans to youth being too small to support meaningful entrepreneurship.
He also raised concerns over healthcare and social sectors, stating that a “Viksit Bharat” cannot be achieved without a “Swasth Bharat,” and highlighted issues such as reduced health spending and pollution-related deaths.
Calling for a results-driven approach, Sahney urged the government to adopt a C.A.R.E. model — Commitment, Allocation, Realization and Execution, ensuring that allocated funds reach intended beneficiaries.