The Chief Minister’s Special Rural Development Fund (CMSRDF), implemented by the Government of Meghalaya under the Special Rural Works Program since 2000-2001, is aimed at generating wage employment and creating socially and economically beneficial public assets at the grassroots level. The scheme supports projects selected by Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and NGOs, and is executed through local durbars and beneficiary organizations under the supervision of respective Deputy Commissioners. Projects under CMSRDF include the construction of rural roads, footpaths, footbridges, drainage systems, culverts using Hume pipes, improvements in water sources, community halls, multipurpose buildings, rural electrification, school buildings, playgrounds, and the procurement of vehicles like mortuary vans, ambulances, school buses, and oxygenated vans. Eco-friendly and innovative projects are also encouraged. The scheme emphasizes direct public participation rather than contractor-led execution and requires that funds be maintained in savings bank accounts with periodic interest reporting to the state government.
Benefits
• Direct Participation: Projects are implemented with active local participation through village durbars, local committees, or beneficiary organizations.
• Financial Accountability: Funds are managed through savings bank accounts, and beneficiaries must periodically report interest earnings.
• Public Asset Development: Supports construction and improvement of rural infrastructure such as roads, water sources, community halls, and other public utilities.
Eligibility
• Projects must be proposed by village communities, MLAs, or partner organizations such as NGOs.
• Implementing agencies (NGOs, SHGs, etc.) must open a joint bank account (operated by at least two members).
• For funds exceeding ₹50,000, disbursement is released in two installments by the Block Development Officer.
• Funds cannot be used for land compensation or payment of salaries/office expenses.
• A utilization certificate must be furnished by partner organizations to the Block Development Officer; failure to submit this certificate within three years will result in closure of the project and return of funds.
• Citizens and SHGs can seek assistance through their local MLA.
Application Process
Offline
• Step 01: The village community, MLAs, and/or partner organizations submit detailed proposals (including plans and estimates) to the Chief Minister’s Secretariat.
• Step 02: Proposals lacking the necessary plans, estimates, or quotations are returned by the CM’s Secretariat.
• Step 03: Approved proposals are then processed for fund disbursement according to project progress and guidelines.
Documents Required
• Jointly Operated Bank Account Details (as per guidelines)
• Utilization Certificate (to certify that funds have been properly used)
• Completion Certificate with photographic evidence of the project
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is a contractor allowed under CMSRDF?
A: No, the scheme mandates that implementation is through direct participation of the people, not through contractors.
Q: What is the mode of payment?
A: Payments are made directly to beneficiary bank accounts, with funds managed in savings accounts as per scheme guidelines.
Q: Can funds be used for land compensation or payment of salaries?
A: No, funds cannot be utilized for land compensation, salaries, or office expenses.
Q: Are proposals without complete plans and estimates accepted?
A: No, any proposal without the required plans, estimates, or quotations will be returned by the CM’s Secretariat.
Q: What is the process to apply for the scheme?
A: Proposals must be submitted offline to the Chief Minister’s Secretariat by the respective village communities, MLAs, or partner organizations, following the prescribed format.