The “Atal Shresth Shahar Yojna (ASSY)” was launched on 1st April 2018 by the Urban Development Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh, to identify and reward the best-performing Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) such as Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, and Nagar Panchayats. This initiative encourages excellence in sanitation, fund utilization, public infrastructure, and official work among ULBs.
Fund Allocation
| Sl. No. | Component | Total Allocation (₹ in Lacs) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prize Distribution | 500.00 | Annual allocation |
| 2 | A&OE Fund (incl. prize distribution) | 10.00 | Based on actual expenditure |
| 3 | Third Party Agency (TPA) | 15.00 | Based on quoted cost |
| 4 | Online Platform with AMC (5 years) | 15.00 | One-time setup and yearly AMC as per actual |
| Total | 540.00 |
Benefits
Incentive Pattern
| Prize | Municipal Corporation (₹) | Municipal Council (₹) | Nagar Panchayat (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Prize | 1,25,00,000/- | 1,00,00,000/- | 75,00,000/- |
| 2nd Prize | — | 75,00,000/- | 50,00,000/- |
| 3rd Prize | — | 50,00,000/- | 25,00,000/- |
Spending of Award Money
- The award money is an un-tied grant for winning ULBs.
- It will not form part of the ULB’s income or be used for employee salaries/wages.
- ULBs may use up to ₹5,000 per employee for contributions toward their performance in specific categories.
Eligibility
For Participation
- Open to all ULBs in Himachal Pradesh.
- Mandatory for all ULBs to participate annually.
- ULBs that have won in previous years can also participate.
False Claims
- False claims will result in penalties, including grant deductions and disciplinary action.
Indicators for Assessment
| Sl. No. | Parameter | Indicator | Max Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Swachh Survekshan Parameter | Swachh Survekshan (GoI criteria) | As per GoI |
| 2 | State Parameters | Public Service Delivery | 1500 |
| Increase in Income | 2000 | ||
| Fund Utilization | 1500 | ||
| Public Infrastructure | 500 | ||
| Audit Paras Settlement | 1000 |
- Ranking Method: ULBs are ranked based on scores obtained from Swachh Survekshan (GoI criteria) and the above state parameters.
Application Process
Online Submission
- Fill Application: Submit claims online using the prescribed form (Annexure-A) with supporting documents by 30th September.
- Generated Report: The online platform generates a report, which is submitted to authorities for verification.
Screening Procedure
- Claims are reviewed, and top-scoring ULBs are shortlisted for field verification.
- Field verification of top ULBs is conducted by a Third Party Agency (TPA).
- The TPA verifies claims, requests additional documents if necessary, and submits findings to the Director, Urban Development.
Assessment Procedure
- Field verification is carried out by the TPA.
- Scrutiny of claims is done based on the TPA’s findings.
- The Director, Urban Development, recommends shortlisted ULBs to the State Apex Committee for final approval.
- The Apex Committee, chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary/Special Secretary (UD), announces the winners.
Timeline
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Submission of Claims | By 30th September every year |
| Screening Process | By 20th October every year |
| Field Verification by TPA | By 20th November every year |
| Prize Distribution | 25th December every year* |
*Note: The date may change at the Government’s discretion.
Documents Required
- Report on fund utilization for the previous financial year.
- Details of beneficiaries registered under Mukhya Mantri Shahri Ajeevika Guarantee Yojna.
- Audit paras settled and audited accounts.
- Details of income increase (property tax, user charges, rent, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the ‘Atal Shresth Shahar Yojna (ASSY)’?
A scheme to reward the best-performing ULBs in Himachal Pradesh based on their performance in sanitation, public service delivery, fund utilization, and infrastructure development. - Who is eligible to participate in ASSY?
All ULBs in Himachal Pradesh are eligible and required to participate annually. - How are ULBs ranked in the scheme?
ULBs are ranked based on scores from Swachh Survekshan and state-specific parameters. - How is the prize money distributed?
Prize money is distributed as an un-tied grant and cannot be used for salaries or wages. - Is there any provision for rectification of mistakes in the claims?
Yes, ULBs can rectify clerical mistakes within the given timeframe during the screening process.
Sources and References
- Official Website: Urban Development Department, Himachal Pradesh
- Guidelines: ASSY Scheme Guidelines
- Notifications: Latest notifications from the Urban Development Department.