Desk Report, February 12, 2024: In a significant move, State Finance Minister Ajanta Neog presented the Assam Budget 2024-25 today on the floor of the Assam Assembly. The budget, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a Viksit Bharat during Amrit Kaal, aims to propel Assam into the top five states in the nation, as stated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on social media.
Key Highlights of Budget 2024-25:
This budget outlines a practical roadmap for sustainable growth, emphasizing job creation. Assam’s economic growth consistently outpaces the national GDP rate, with per capita income more than doubling since the inception of the Double Engine Government in 2016.
Capital Expenditure in Assam is set to reach a historic high, projected to surpass Rs 20,000 crores in 2024-25, a substantial increase from the Rs 16,000 crores in 2022-23. The state strategically aligns schemes and programs, including Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment, to boost Capex in key sectors such as Connectivity, Tourism, and Education.
Also read: Assam Cabinet Decisions Shape Future Initiatives
The focus on employment opportunities continues, with an emphasis on strengthening entrepreneurship. The government plans to support Self-Help Group (SHG) members through subsidies and grants for income-generating activities, building on the achievement of creating over 1 lakh jobs this year.
Support for women’s empowerment remains a priority, with initiatives like expanding the coverage of Orunodoi to 30 lakh, providing relief to micro-credit borrowers, and supporting 39 lakh women entrepreneurs.
The budget includes a robust push towards infrastructure development through projects like Asom Mala 2.0 and initiatives that promise multiplier effects, ultimately benefiting the common citizens of the state.
Green growth takes center stage, with plans to plant 3 crore saplings, introduce electric buses, and establish over 1000 MW of renewable energy and rooftop solar plants.
The Tea Garden community receives special attention, with increased investments in schools, a 3% reservation in government jobs, and the clearance of arrear electricity dues.
Cultural preservation finds prominence, featuring the construction of the Maa Kamakhya Corridor, conservation efforts around Satras, pilgrimages to Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and incentives for traditional cultural expressions like Bhaona and Raas Lila.
The Assam Budget 2024-25 reflects a comprehensive vision, addressing economic, social, and cultural aspects for the holistic development of the state.
