Elikulam Grama Panchayat
Audit Report – Summary
Financial Year: 2019–20
Audit Report Summary – Elikulam Grama Panchayat
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About the Report
This report is based on the audit examination of the financial activities, revenue collection, fund utilisation, project implementation, and accounting procedures of Elikulam Grama Panchayat for the financial year 2019–20.
Key Audit Findings
1. Irregularities in the Annual Accounts
- The value of certain assets of the Panchayat had not been accurately included in the accounts.
- Irregularities were identified in the accounting of Panchayat vehicles and land.
- Property tax collection and arrears did not match between the annual accounts and the Sanchaya records.
- Certain accounting adjustments relating to MGNREGS administrative expenses were not accurately reflected.
2. Short Assessment of Property Tax
The audit found that the Panchayat suffered revenue loss due to property tax being assessed at lower rates for certain buildings. The report also noted that the tax on one building had been under-assessed by ₹2,034.
3. Irregularities in Profession Tax Collection
- Profession tax had not been fully collected from employees of certain institutions.
- Arrear amounts had not been properly recorded in the Arrear Demand Register.
4. Utilisation of Government Grants
Certain government funds, including the Sabarimala Special Grant, had not been fully utilised. The report highlights the need to ensure the timely and efficient utilisation of available funds.
5. Calf Rearing Scheme
Under Project No. 21/20, an amount of ₹2.50 lakh was spent as the Panchayat's contribution towards the Calf Rearing Scheme. The audit pointed out irregularities relating to the records and procedures associated with the implementation of the project.
6. GST-related Issues in Construction Works
In certain road concreting works, documents proving that contractors had paid GST were not available in the files. The audit report emphasises the need to properly maintain the required tax-related records.
7. Violation of Subsidy Guidelines
The audit found that certain amounts were sanctioned under the Well Recharging Scheme without adhering to the limits prescribed in the government subsidy guidelines.
Overall Conclusion
Although Elikulam Grama Panchayat implemented various development and welfare projects during the financial year 2019–20, greater attention is required in ensuring accounting accuracy, proper recording of assets, tax collection, full utilisation of government grants, and compliance with documentation procedures in project implementation.
Key Recommendations
- Ensure that all assets of the Panchayat are accurately recorded in the accounts.
- Rectify deficiencies in property tax assessment and collect outstanding arrears.
- Properly record and collect outstanding profession tax arrears.
- Ensure the timely and full utilisation of government grants and development funds.
- Properly maintain project records and expenditure documents.
- Ensure that documentary proof of GST payment is obtained from contractors.
- Implement subsidy schemes in strict compliance with government guidelines.
In Brief
Accounting irregularities, deficiencies in tax collection, incomplete asset records, under-utilisation of funds, and procedural shortcomings in project implementation are the major areas of concern highlighted in the report.
Elikulam Grama Panchayat
Audit Report Summary | Financial Year 2019–20
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