The Union Government has released over Rs 723 crore in grants to Rajasthan and Jharkhand to strengthen rural local bodies. Rajasthan received Rs 303.04 crore as the first instalment for FY 2025-26, plus Rs 145.24 crore from withheld FY 2024-25 funds. Jharkhand received Rs 275.13 crore as the first instalment for FY 2024-25. These funds, part of the 15th Finance Commission's recommendations, are intended for location-specific needs like sanitation and waste management, excluding salaries.