Regarding need to release pending funds under Disaster Relief and other centrally sponsored schemes to West Bengal-laid

Regarding need to release pending funds under Disaster Relief and other centrally sponsored schemes to West Bengal-laid SHRIMATI JUNE MALIAH (MEDINIPUR): Over the past decades, the Sea Surface Temperature of the Bay of Bengal has risen by 10°C. This sharp increase has created an ideal environment for cyclone formation. As a result, the States on the East Coast face the brunt. Cyclones like Bulbul, Amphan, Yaas and Dana have created catastrophe in affecting the livelihood of lakhs of people in my State of West Bengal. However, it is extremely disappointing and concerning that funds worth over Rs 43,000 crore is due for natural disasters to the State of West Bengal. Across different schemes, Rs 2 lakh crore is pending from the Union government to the State of West Bengal. Moreover, of the amount asked by the State government, the Union has only released 7% of the funds. In fact for the Yass cyclone in 2021, not even a penny was released. Cyclones are unavoidable natural calamities. While the State government continues to respond proactively with limited resources, timely financial support from the Union government is crucial. The long-pending over Rs 43,000 crore in disaster relief and Rs 2 lakh crore under various schemes must be released without further delay to ensure justice and relief for the affected people.