CAG finds 62.74% of ARDD posts vacant, 46% surgical instruments unserviceable

This audit examined the compliance and infrastructure adequacy of the Government of West Bengal for the year ended 31 March 2024, focusing on the Animal Resource Development Department and coastal tourism initiatives.

Government of West Bengal, specifically the Animal Resource Development Department, Tourism Department, Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department, Forest and Environment Department, and various other state departments including Agriculture, Cooperation, Food & Supplies, and Public Works.

• CAG found that the Animal Resource Development Department (ARDD) lacked strategic plans, policies, and norms for maintaining veterinary infrastructure.
• 46% of surgical instruments in test-checked Block Animal Health Centres were found to be unserviceable.
• A Feed Testing Laboratory constructed at Jalpaiguri in 2019 at a cost of ₹50.27 lakh has never been used due to manpower shortages.
• The overall vacancy rate in the ARDD was 62.74% (5,374 sanctioned posts vs. 2,002 filled).
• Out of 2,054 Animal Development Aid centres, only 176 were operational due to staff vacancies.
• CAG noted that the Coastal Zone Management Plan (2019) had not been approved by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change due to delays.
• The eco-tourism project of Jambu island could not become operational because required clearances were not obtained before work was allocated.
• CAG identified an undue benefit of ₹2.01 crore to contractors in the Cooperation Department regarding the use of steel material.
• CAG recommended that the ARDD formulate detailed plans for infrastructure, supply essential medicines, and establish bio-waste management infrastructure.

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