Bhubaneswar: In a significant development, the Odisha government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, successfully passed the 2024-25 budget in the state assembly today. This marks a crucial moment for the government, as it navigates key financial challenges and opportunities for the upcoming fiscal year.
During the presentation of the budget, Chief Minister Majhi did not shy away from addressing the criticisms raised by the opposition. He robustly defended his administration's policies, offering pointed responses to allegations of mismanagement from previous governments and present-day opposition leaders.
Here are the key highlights from the Chief Minister's address:
- Presentation of the Full Budget: On July 25, 2024, the state government introduced the full budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
- Emergency Spending Approval: On July 31, 2024, the government passed a supplementary allocation bill to cover necessary expenses for August and September, emphasizing its commitment to efficient financial management.
- Detailed Deliberations: Between August 20 and September 6, extensive discussions took place in the assembly, where various demands were carefully considered.
- Budget Scrutiny: After the budget was tabled, it was reviewed by standing committees to ensure proper evaluation and execution.
- Focus on Development: The budget emphasizes building a "Developed Odisha" through transformation, growth, and good governance, with a deep focus on preserving Odia identity and culture. Chief Minister Majhi stressed that the groundwork for a prosperous Odisha by 2036 has already been laid.
- Public Involvement: Over 12,000 citizens contributed their suggestions to the budget planning, a sixfold increase compared to the previous year, reflecting the government's emphasis on public opinion.
- Budget Scale: The total budget for 2024-25 amounts to ₹2.65 lakh crore, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores the state's commitment to economic advancement.
- Program Expenditure: The government has allocated ₹1.55 lakh crore for program expenditure, a 24% rise from the previous fiscal year, highlighting the focus on welfare schemes and developmental projects.
- Capital Spending: With an allocation of ₹58,195 crore for capital expenditure, the budget aims to enhance infrastructure and contribute 6.3% to the state's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).
- Fiscal Discipline: The fiscal deficit is contained at ₹32,403 crore, representing 3.5% of the state's GSDP, indicating a healthy financial position for Odisha.
- Support for Farmers: A key decision from the cabinet was to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy to ₹3,100, benefiting farmers across the state. In the past, promises of bonuses to farmers went unfulfilled, but this time, the government has taken firm action.
- Focus on Education: Under the 5T initiative, the government plans to establish 500 Godabarish Mishra Model Primary Schools across the state, setting a new benchmark for quality education at the grassroots level.
- Health Sector Commitments: Chief Minister Majhi criticized the previous administration for limiting healthcare services to television and social media. The current government is committed to delivering top-notch health services to all citizens.
- Women’s Empowerment: Women’s welfare is at the forefront of this year’s budget, with ₹75,622 crore allocated for their empowerment. This is an increase of ₹11,000 crore from last year, reflecting the government’s dedication to enhancing the role of women in society.
- Innovative Farmer Schemes: The government has introduced several unique initiatives aimed at empowering farmers, recognizing their vital contribution to the state’s economy.
This budget signifies a strategic push towards economic growth, social welfare, and inclusive development, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The government’s focus on development and empowerment, especially for women and farmers, sets the tone for the future of Odisha.