CAG uncovers six "ghost hostels" in Maharashtra receiving Rs 1.62 crore with no students
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Education policy· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The CAG's Compliance Audit Report 2024 revealed that the Maharashtra government released Rs 1.62 crore to six 'ghost hostels' between 2020 and 2024 despite no students residing there.
Background
The CAG audit identified six non-functional hostels in Jalna, Buldhana, and Latur districts. Significant discrepancies were noted in Modikhan Hostel (Jalna), where Rs 18 lakh was paid in honorariums despite the building being locked and dilapidated.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyCAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) is the supreme audit institution of India.
- FactRs 1.62 crore was misappropriated/mismanaged across six ghost hostels between 2020 and 2024.
- FactAs of March 2024, Maharashtra had 443 government hostels for students.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the systemic failures in the oversight of welfare schemes for socially and economically disadvantaged students as highlighted by the CAG report.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Verification gap: Lack of periodic physical verification of infrastructure by the Department of Social Justice.
- Financial leakage: Failure of internal audit mechanisms to flag honorarium payments to non-functional entities.
- Infrastructure deficit: Inadequate staffing and lack of basic amenities like dining halls and power backup in existing hostels.
Keywords: Accountability · Audit Oversight · Welfare Schemes · Ghost Entities · Public Accountability · Administrative Lapses
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