New Delhi, July 26: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Affirms Equitable State Funding in Union Budget 2024-25
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured on Friday that all states have received fair allocations in the Union Budget 2024-25, contrary to opposition claims. Speaking with NDTV’s CEO Sanjay Pugalia, Sitharaman refuted accusations that her Budget speech favored Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, emphasizing that no state was overlooked.
Sitharaman reiterated the Centre’s legal obligation to aid Andhra Pradesh post its 2014 bifurcation, under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. She noted, "The Act requires us to support the state in building its capital city and developing backward regions." The Finance Minister mentioned ongoing efforts like the Amaravati capital project and the Polavaram irrigation scheme, hindered by technical issues but vital for the state’s progress.
Addressing Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s critiques, Sitharaman remarked, "Every Budget doesn’t name all states. Congress, with its long tenure of governance, knows this well."
Highlighting the Budget’s simplicity and transparency, she aligned it with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making financial matters accessible to the general public. “We present everything upfront. There is no fine print… Any changes are communicated openly,” Sitharaman stated.
On fiscal deficit management, Sitharaman advocated for reducing debt responsibly, ensuring it doesn’t hamper economic growth. She stressed the necessity of borrowing for a growing economy while focusing on judicious debt usage. “The goal isn’t just a deficit number; it’s about the path to achieve it. Responsible borrowing aligns with our macroeconomic strategy,” she explained.
This comprehensive approach to budgeting underscores the government’s commitment to balanced development, equitable state funding, and transparent economic policies.
IANS
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/07/26/all-states-have-got-funds-in-union-budget-as-in-the-past-fm-sitharaman/
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