Coalition govt to face administrative hurdles

While everyone is not convinced whether the Congress- JD ( S) coalition government is here to stay, the new dispensation has bigger challenges ahead in matters of administration. On its part, the JD ( S) has decided not to meddle in the internal affairs of the Congress while the Congress high command is said to be very serious about ensuring smooth functioning of the coalition government. With both the parties offering freebies to the poor in the run- up to the assembly poll, the coalition partners have the daunting task of delivering on their promises through a Common Minimum Programme. Going by official sources, the government could face administrative problems in implementing new schemes and bringing the economy back on track as the state currently has a huge debt to the tune of over Rs 2.5 lakh crore. Although the last Budget showed that the parameters of fiscal discipline were adhered to while borrowing, it appears its volume was inflated to make this claim possible. What’s more, the coalition partners have made announcements, which are likely to be a massive burden on the exchequer. For instance, the JD ( S) has announced waiver of all farmer loans to the tune of over Rs 58,000 crore, which amounts to 25 per cent of the total Budget last presented by former chief minister Sid dar a mai ah. Besides, the government has to make provisions for welfare schemes like the Indira Canteens, announced by the last government. While in opposition, the JD ( S) was not in favour of the Anna Bhagya. The partners will have to work to bridge such differences and the state government cannot expect any additional support from the Centre even at a time of natural calamity. The BJP is expected to do its best to ensure that the coalition performs below par.