G.O. (Ms.) No. 95, Self Sufficiency Scheme 2014-2015

Purpose and funding

The Self Sufficiency Scheme guidelines approved by the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (SGS-1) Department apply to implementation during 2014-2015. The scheme encourages public participation in planning, funding, creating and maintaining community assets in rural and urban areas. G.O. (Ms.) No. 95 sanctions Rs.100 crore, and authorises the Director of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj to distribute funds to districts and report progress.

Who can propose a project

A need may be identified by an individual, group, institution, public or private company, or the community. An application describing the proposed work and consenting to contribute one-third of the amount must be submitted to the District Collector. Contributions from local bodies and universities are not accepted under the scheme.

Selection and approval process

The District Collector must examine whether the proposed work is needed and feasible under the scheme. If justified, the Collector obtains a detailed estimate from the implementing agency. The applicant must then deposit the prescribed amount by Demand Draft with the District Collector or the Project Director of the District Rural Development Agency before sanction can be issued.

Required permission must be obtained from the relevant local body or department before administrative sanction. Where a local body or department will maintain the completed asset, its concurrence must also be obtained. If available funding is limited, priority must be given to works providing the greatest community benefit.

Permitted works and property safeguards

Permitted works include facilities for government schools, colleges, hostels, hospitals, health centres, veterinary facilities, libraries, burial grounds, noon meal centres, Anganwadis and public distribution shops. Community buildings, drinking water supply, roads, sanitation facilities, bridges, parks, street lights, waste management works, solar lights and reverse osmosis drinking water plants may also be supported.

Key property conditions are:

• No permanent structure may be built without the property owner's prior permission.
• A contributor cannot claim rights, ownership or a lease over the property or its use.
• A contributor's name may appear on a name board only with the District Collector's permission and without affecting the site's appearance.
• The District Collector may cancel a work if contributors lose interest or violate the conditions.

Government office and residential buildings are generally prohibited, subject to the listed exceptions for certain public facilities. Purchase of movable items, equipment and furniture is also generally prohibited, with specified exceptions for eligible public institutions and solid waste management vehicles.