“We may use 1971 census data to incentivize states for efforts and progress made in moving towards replacement rate of population growth. The weightage may be substantially higher than other incentives so that southern states don’t feel let down. However, a final decision about various weightages is yet to be taken,” a Finance Commission official said under the condition of anonymity. “AP alone would lose Rs8,000 crore per annum because of 15th Finance Commission’s ToR to use 2011 census for devolution of funds,” he added. Speaking on the matter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month said the allegation of favouring northern states over southern states was “baseless”.

Source: Mint May 06, 2018 15:33 UTC