Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Major Focus on Agriculture
- New Scheme: CM Kisan
- Samrudha Krushak Yojana
- Education and Healthcare
- Infrastructure Development
- Social Welfare Programs
- Economic Growth and Employment
- Environmental Conservation
- Conclusion
- Detailed Breakdown of Budget Allocation
- Impact on the People of Odisha
- Government's Vision for the Future
- Final Thoughts
Introduction
On Thursday, Odisha Chief Minister and Finance Minister Mohan Majhi presented his government's first state budget in the Odisha Assembly for the financial year 2024-25. This significant event marks a pivotal moment for the state, with a total budget allocation of Rs 2,65,000 crore. This new budget reflects a 15 percent increase from the previous year's budget of Rs 2,30,000 crore.
Odisha Budget 2024-25 Summary
| Sector | Key Initiatives | Allocation (in Rs crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Budget | 2,65,000 | |
| Agriculture | Increased allocation | 33,919 |
| CM Kisan Scheme | 1,935 | |
| Samrudha Krushak Yojana | 5,000 | |
| Education | Primary and Secondary Education | Significant funds allocated |
| Higher Education | Investments in upgrades and scholarships | |
| Healthcare | Primary Healthcare Centers | Facility upgrades, medicine supply, hiring |
| Hospitals and Specialized Centers | Infrastructure and equipment improvements | |
| Infrastructure | Roads and Highways | Major projects planned |
| Bridges and Flyovers | Construction and maintenance | |
| Urban Development | Water supply, sanitation, public transport | |
| Social Welfare | Financial Assistance | Various schemes planned |
| Healthcare Services | Free or subsidized services | |
| Education and Skill Development | Support for economically weaker sections | |
| Economic Growth | Investment Promotion | Incentives, regulatory simplification, industrial parks |
| Support for SMEs | Financial assistance, technical support, market access | |
| Industrial Development | Infrastructure, technology, skill development | |
| Environmental Conservation | Afforestation Programs | Planting trees, restoring forests |
| Water Conservation | Conservation initiatives, rainwater harvesting | |
| Renewable Energy | Investments in solar, wind, and other renewables |
Major Focus on Agriculture
One of the most notable aspects of this budget is the increased focus on agriculture. The proposed allocation for agriculture has been significantly increased to Rs 33,919 crore, up from Rs 24,829 crore last year. This boost is aimed at supporting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity in the state.
New Scheme: CM Kisan
To further support the agricultural sector, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi introduced a new scheme called 'CM Kisan.' This scheme has an outlay of Rs 1,935 crore and is designed to provide direct benefits to farmers. The 'CM Kisan' scheme is expected to play a crucial role in improving the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring food security in Odisha.
Samrudha Krushak Yojana
In addition to the 'CM Kisan' scheme, the budget also announced the Samrudha Krushak Yojana. This initiative has a proposed outlay of Rs 5,000 crore and is aimed at enhancing the overall prosperity of farmers. The scheme is expected to provide comprehensive support to farmers, including financial assistance, infrastructure development, and access to modern farming techniques.
Education and Healthcare
While agriculture received a significant boost, the budget also addressed other critical sectors such as education and healthcare. The government has allocated substantial funds to improve the quality of education and healthcare services in the state. These investments are expected to lead to better educational outcomes and improved health standards for the people of Odisha.
Infrastructure Development
The government has planned significant investments in building and upgrading roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure. This will not only improve connectivity within the state but also boost economic activities and create job opportunities.
Social Welfare Programs
The budget also includes several social welfare programs aimed at supporting vulnerable sections of society. These programs are designed to provide financial assistance, healthcare, and other essential services to those in need. The government's commitment to social welfare is evident from the substantial allocations made for these programs.
Economic Growth and Employment
One of the primary goals of the budget is to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities. The government has outlined various initiatives to attract investments, support small and medium enterprises, and promote industrial development. These efforts are expected to generate jobs and stimulate economic activities across the state.
Environmental Conservation
The budget also emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation. The government has allocated funds for various initiatives aimed at protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. These initiatives include afforestation programs, conservation of water bodies, and promotion of renewable energy sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Odisha state budget for the financial year 2024-25, presented by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, reflects a comprehensive approach to development. With a significant increase in allocation for agriculture, the introduction of new schemes like 'CM Kisan' and Samrudha Krushak Yojana, and substantial investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare programs, the budget aims to drive economic growth, improve the quality of life for the people of Odisha, and ensure sustainable development. The government's commitment to these goals is evident from the substantial increase in the overall budget allocation compared to the previous year.
Detailed Breakdown of Budget Allocation
The Rs 2.65 lakh crore budget has been meticulously planned to address various sectors and ensure balanced development across the state. Here's a detailed breakdown of some of the key allocations:
Agriculture
- Total Allocation: Rs 33,919 crore
- CM Kisan Scheme: Rs 1,935 crore
- Samrudha Krushak Yojana: Rs 5,000 crore
Education
- Primary and Secondary Education: Significant funds have been allocated to improve infrastructure, provide quality teaching materials, and enhance teacher training programs.
- Higher Education: Investments are planned to upgrade universities and colleges, promote research and development, and provide scholarships to meritorious students.
Healthcare
- Primary Healthcare Centers: Funds will be used to upgrade facilities, ensure the availability of essential medicines, and hire additional healthcare professionals.
- Hospitals and Specialized Centers: Significant investments are planned to improve infrastructure, procure advanced medical equipment, and enhance patient care services.
Infrastructure Development
- Roads and Highways: Major projects are planned to construct new roads, widen existing ones, and ensure better connectivity to remote areas.
- Bridges and Flyovers: Significant funds have been allocated for the construction and maintenance of bridges and flyovers to ease traffic congestion.
- Urban Development: Investments in urban infrastructure, including water supply, sanitation, and public transport systems, are aimed at improving the quality of life in cities and towns.
Social Welfare Programs
- Financial Assistance: Various schemes are planned to provide financial support to vulnerable sections, including pension schemes for the elderly, financial aid for widows, and support for disabled individuals.
- Healthcare Services: Programs aimed at providing free or subsidized healthcare services to the underprivileged are included in the budget.
- Education and Skill Development: Initiatives to support education and skill development for economically weaker sections are planned to enhance their employability.
Economic Growth Initiatives
- Investment Promotion: The government plans to create a conducive environment for investments by providing incentives, simplifying regulatory procedures, and developing industrial parks and special economic zones.
- Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Various schemes are planned to provide financial assistance, technical support, and market access to SMEs.
- Industrial Development: Investments in infrastructure, technology, and skill development are aimed at promoting industrial growth and creating employment opportunities.
Environmental Conservation
- Afforestation Programs: Significant funds are allocated for planting trees, restoring degraded forests, and promoting green cover.
- Water Conservation: Initiatives to conserve water bodies, promote rainwater harvesting, and improve irrigation efficiency are included in the budget.
- Renewable Energy: Investments in solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources are planned to promote sustainable energy production and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Impact on the People of Odisha
The increased budget allocation and the introduction of new schemes are expected to have a profound impact on the lives of the people of Odisha. The focus on agriculture will provide much-needed support to farmers, ensuring better incomes and improved livelihoods. Investments in education and healthcare will lead to better educational outcomes and improved health standards. Infrastructure development will boost economic activities, create jobs, and improve connectivity. Social welfare programs will provide support to vulnerable sections, enhancing their quality of life. Economic growth initiatives will attract investments, promote industrial development, and create employment opportunities. Environmental conservation efforts will ensure sustainable development and protect natural resources for future generations.
Government's Vision for the Future
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi's first state budget reflects the government's vision for a prosperous and sustainable future for Odisha. The comprehensive approach to development, with a focus on agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure, social welfare, economic growth, and environmental conservation, is aimed at ensuring balanced and inclusive growth. The substantial increase in budget allocation compared to the previous year demonstrates the government's commitment to these goals.
The budget is not just a financial statement but a roadmap for the state's development. It outlines the government's priorities and sets the direction for the future. With careful planning and effective implementation, the initiatives announced in the budget have the potential to transform Odisha, improve the quality of life for its people, and ensure sustainable development for future generations.
Final Thoughts
As the government embarks on this ambitious journey, the people of Odisha can look forward to a brighter and more prosperous future. The increased focus on agriculture, the introduction of new schemes, and substantial investments in various sectors are expected to drive economic growth, improve living standards, and ensure sustainable development. The government's commitment to these goals is evident from the substantial increase in the overall budget allocation compared to the previous year. With a clear vision and a comprehensive approach, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi's first state budget sets the stage for a new era of growth and development for Odisha.