Punjab’s fiscal landscape is set for a transformative journey with the announcement of the staggering ₹2,04,918 crore budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema. Surpassing previous records, this budget signals a 2.93% increase from the revised estimates of the preceding year, reflecting a steadfast commitment to propelling the state towards inclusive development and prosperity.
Agricultural Renaissance:
With an unwavering dedication to fortifying Punjab’s agricultural foundation, the finance minister has allocated ₹13,784 crore for the agriculture sector. A noteworthy inclusion is the ₹575 crore provision for Crop Diversification Schemes, demonstrating a strategic approach to enhance agricultural practices. The launch of “Mission Unnat Kisan” further accentuates the government’s commitment, offering timely technical assistance and a 33% subsidy on cotton seeds for nearly 87,000 farmers.
Punjab’s emphasis on horticulture and soil conservation is evident through the PHASE initiative, aimed at elevating product quality and fostering horticulture crop clusters. Considerable investments in micro-irrigation and underground pipelines underscore the government’s commitment to judiciously manage water resources.
Animal Husbandry, Dairy, and Fisheries:
The government’s focus extends to animal husbandry, dairy, and fisheries, with initiatives like “Mission Phulkari” empowering village-level artisans. Substantial support for sugarcane farmers and investments in Co-Gen and Ethanol projects exemplify efforts towards agricultural diversification and sustainability. The proposed ‘One River One Fish Farming Program’ in Kanya village aims to allocate 3233 acres of land, ushering in a new era for fish farming in the region.
Education for a Prosperous Tomorrow:
Punjab envisions becoming an “educated Punjab” with a significant allocation of ₹16,987 crore for the education sector. The government’s commitment is underscored by initiatives like the construction and renovation of school infrastructure, teacher regularization, recruitment, and skill upgradation programs. The introduction of Schools of Eminence, Brilliance, Applied Learning, and Happiness signals a holistic approach towards enhancing educational standards and fostering overall development.
Healthcare and Road Safety Initiatives:
The establishment of Aam Aadmi Clinics and the “Farishtey Scheme” for reducing morbidity rates from road accidents reflects the government’s focus on healthcare accessibility and road safety. The proposal to establish sports nurseries in every district showcases efforts to promote sports and nurture young talent. A budgetary allocation of ₹10,635 crore for the Home Affairs, Justice, and Jails Department emphasizes the government’s commitment to ensuring robust law enforcement and justice delivery mechanisms.
We can say Punjab’s budget for FY 2024-25 outlines a comprehensive strategy for economic growth, agricultural sustainability, educational excellence, healthcare accessibility, and societal well-being. The substantial allocations across key sectors exemplify the government’s vision to propel Punjab towards a path of inclusive development and prosperity.