Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flagship project Swachh Bharat Mission was given an extra boost, with donors being eligible for 100 per cent deduction under Section 80G of the Income-Tax Act.
Reading the Budget proposals, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said other than corporate social responsibility, residents and non-residents contributing to Swachh Bharat Kosh and Clean Ganga Fund shall be eligible for the deduction.
Swach Bharat Kosh has been set up to attract funds from various entities, including companies, for activities related to Swachh Bharat initiative. The Clean Ganga Fund is aimed at pooling money for taking up works to clean the Ganga River.
“It is also proposed to have an enabling provision to levy Swachh Bharat Cess at a rate of 2 per cent or less on all or certain services if the need arises. This Cess will be effective from a date to be notified. Resources generated from this cess will be utilised for financing and promoting initiatives towards the mission,” he added.
Jaitley informed the House that 50 lakh toilets have already been constructed in 2014-15, and the target of building six crore toilets will be attained.
The Centre had in December 2014 decentralised the implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission in urban areas, and targeted private investment of ₹42,512 crore.
Out of the total project cost of ₹62,009 crore, Central assistance would be to the tune of ₹14,623 crore, while the States and Union Territories would be required to contribute ₹4,874 crore.
The mission was launched on October 2, 2014 for a period of five years, and will be implemented in 4,041 towns.