The controversial mandate of using 2011 Census data instead of the earlier practice of using 1971 Census data, Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said is contrary to National Population Policy Statements. Photo: HTNew Delhi: The controversy regarding the mandate of the 15th Finance Commission (FFC) further escalated on Friday with Odisha joining its Southern counterparts in opposing the mandate of the FC which allegedly favours Northern states that have a higher population growth rate. We demand that population data of 1971 Census should be used by the 15th Finance Commission while making its recommendations,” he added. The southern states led by Kerala have also opposed the terms of reference, demanding the use of the 1971 census so as not to penalize southern states that have achieved replacement rate of population growth. However, speaking on the matter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the allegation of favouring Northern States over Southern states was “baseless”.

Source: Mint April 13, 2018 18:22 UTC