The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, July 25, 2024 (TBB Bureau): The Odisha government tabled a comprehensive budget of Rs 2.65 lakh crore for the fiscal year 2024-25 in the state assembly on Thursday, emphasizing substantial investments in agriculture and irrigation. This budget marks a 15 per cent increase from the previous year’s budgetary estimate of Rs 2.30 lakh crore for 2023-24, as announced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Presenting the BJP government’s first budget, Chief Minister Majhi, who also serves as the Finance Minister, proposed a significant allocation of Rs 33,919 crore for agriculture. This allocation represents a 36 per cent increase compared to the previous year’s budget, highlighting the government’s commitment to bolstering the agricultural sector.
The budget estimates include Rs 1.55 lakh crore for program expenditure, Rs 97,725 crore for administrative expenditure, and a dedicated Rs 3,900 crore for Disaster Risk Management Funds, as outlined by Majhi.
In alignment with the BJP’s electoral promise to empower women, the budget proposes a Rs 10,000 crore outlay for the ‘Subhadra’ scheme, a financial assistance program designed for women.
Farmers also stand to benefit significantly, with Rs 5,000 crore allocated for the “Samrudha Krushak Yojana,” aimed at enhancing farmers’ welfare. Additionally, a new scheme, ‘CM Kisan,’ is proposed with an outlay of Rs 1,935 crore to further support the farming community.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized that the budget preparation involved extensive consultations with various stakeholders. “This is a ‘people’s budget,’ crafted with inputs from 12,000 individuals over recent days,” he stated.
Beyond agriculture, the budget focuses on key sectors such as industries, health, education, and services. Majhi affirmed that development initiatives targeting farmers, women, youth, and economically disadvantaged groups are prioritized to fulfill the aspirations of the people.
The BJP government’s overarching goal is to ensure inclusive development across the state, addressing the diverse needs and aspirations of its citizens.
