THE NEWS FREEDOM
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 5
Punjab’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Singh Mann, lauded the 2024-25 budget, presented by Finance Minister Harpal Cheema in the state assembly, as a significant stride towards shaping a ‘Rangla Punjab’ through inclusive, balanced, and comprehensive development. In a statement issued today, Mann emphasized that the ‘zero tax’ budget meticulously addresses core sectors including health, education, power, infrastructure, industry, sports, and social security, propelling the state toward a high growth trajectory. He highlighted that the budget surpasses Rs 2 lakh crore for the first time, signaling the Punjab government’s groundbreaking initiatives for public welfare.
Mann noted that tax revenue has surged by 13%, surpassing previous compound annual growth rates, reflecting the government’s clarity of thought and determination to convert promises into tangible actions. He reiterated the government’s focus on key areas such as Good Governance, Education, and Health. Notably, an allocation of Rs 13,784 crore has been earmarked for agriculture and allied sectors in the upcoming financial year, aimed at diversifying crops and ensuring farmer welfare.
The Chief Minister highlighted allocations of Rs 575 crore for crop diversification Schemes and Rs 9,330 crore for agricultural power subsidies in the fiscal year 2024-25. He also detailed the proposal for a new Malwa canal project to optimize water usage and reduce reliance on groundwater in districts like Bathinda, Faridkot, Ferozepur, and Muktsar.
Significantly, a budgetary outlay of Rs 16,987 crore has been allocated for the Education sector, comprising funds for schools of eminence, brilliance, applied learning, and happiness. Additionally, Rs 5,264 crore has been allocated for the health sector to provide quality services to the people.
Mann stressed that the budget aims to bring about financial discipline and economic prudence, focusing on narrowing the fiscal deficit and enhancing revenue through resource mobilization. He envisioned the budget as a roadmap for industrial revival and revitalizing the agrarian economy of the state.
Concluding, Mann emphasized that the budget sets new parameters for growth and development, catering to the aspirations of the people of Punjab. He reiterated that it reflects the pro-people policies of the state government, aiming to serve the weakest and poorest sections of society earnestly. Mann attributed the budget’s success to the pragmatic approach of the AAP government in achieving holistic development and prosperity.