TODAY -
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 31:
Out of Rs 75 lakhs sanctioned by the Union Government for a project aimed at preserving the pony breed of Manipur whose number is dwindling day by day at an alarming rate, Rs 30 lakhs have been reportedly swindled in the most unscrupulous manner from the State Veterinary Department.
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A reliable source informed The Sangai Express that the project was implemented by the Manipur Polo and Horse Riding Association under the sponsorship of the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Government of India.
However, the requisite amount was sanctioned to the State Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department.
The project was specially initiated to preserve the pony breed of Manipur which is facing extinction.
The project was envisioned to increase the number of ponies and to preserve the pedigree of the breed.
After Rs 45 lakhs was released to the Manipur Polo and Horse Riding Association a few years back, the balance amount of 30 lakhs was found missing from the account of the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department when the Association asked for the remaining amount, disclosed the source.
With the Department unable to furnish utilisation certificate to the Centre for the missing amount, it remains highly doubtful whether the Union Government will provide more funds for the pony preservation and promotion project.
Under instruction of the State Government, the Department conducted an investigation into the matter and it has been learnt that the fraud took place during the time one particular former DDO.
It was found that the amount remained in the cash book of the Department while it was found withdrawn in the bank pass-book.
After the Chief Secretary was intimated of the mysterious loss of fund, the Director of the Department has written to the Under Secretary (Veterinary) to inform the matter to the Government.
On the other hand, the Veterinary Department has also been accused of buying some horses for equestrian sports even though the responsibility for purchasing the horses lies on the Sports Department.
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