Odisha CAG Report Finds Government Engineers Misused Tribal Welfare Funds for Phone Recharges and Online Purchases

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has flagged suspected misappropriation of Rs 148.75 crore in Odisha, meant for development projects under the Integrated Tribal Development Agencies (ITDAs). According to a report presented in the state Assembly on Wednesday, the CAG identified “irrelevant transactions” where government funds were transferred to the bank accounts of ITDA engineers. The apex audit body highlighted that these public funds, intended for tribal welfare and development initiatives, were allegedly misused, raising concerns over financial accountability and proper utilization of resources in state-run tribal development programs.