Kumar Bahukhandi
Reacting to the Union Budget presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday July 23, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai praised the Budget as a reflection of vision and resolve. He characterised it as a comprehensive budget aimed at holistic development. The Chief Minister highlighted the significant focus on agriculture and employment, deeming the Budget historic. A key feature for Chhattisgarh is the allocation of Rs 1.52 lakh crore for agriculture, which is anticipated to drive a new green revolution and enhance farmers’ prosperity. Besides, the Chief Minister mentioned about the launch of the Tribal Development Village Scheme, which will benefit 63,000 tribal villages and 5 crore people, significantly aiding Chhattisgarh’s tribal regions. The Budget also includes provisions for internships for one crore youths, offering a stipend of Rs 5,000 per month.
Furthermore, a new Rs 2 lakh crore scheme for employment skills has been introduced, and the Mudra loan limit has been raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh to support start-ups. These measures are expected to generate new employment opportunities for Chhattisgarh’s youth. The Budget provides for education loans up to Rs 10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions, aiming to improve educational and skill levels. The Chief Minister emphasised that the Budget’s allocation of Rs 2.66 lakh crore for rural development highlights the government’s commitment to the welfare of villages, the poor, farmers and youth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He described the Budget as a crucial step towards achieving Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047, representing a model of a welfare state and marking a milestone in India’s development.
The allocation of Rs 1.52 lakh crore for agriculture and related sectors is expected to ensure financial stability and necessary resources for farmers in Chhattisgarh. Besides, information about six crore farmers will be integrated into land registries to expedite land dispute resolutions. The Chief Minister also emphasised that advancements in agricultural research, expert oversight and the promotion of climate-adapted varieties will provide Chhattisgarh’s farmers with advanced technologies and resources. Furthermore, the Budget’s employment incentives include Rs 15,000 aid in three installments for individuals with salaries below Rs 1 lakh who register with EPFO for the first time. New employees will receive a month’s salary, and there is support for job creation in the manufacturing sector and for employers. Sai also commended the Budget for providing relief to salaried individuals through tax slab adjustments, which will result in savings for taxpayers. He highlighted that the Budget includes policies for urban redevelopment and the completion of the Polavaram irrigation project, with a special focus on innovation, research and development.
