CM Unveils Rs 1.89 Lakh Crore Budget with Focus on Farmer Welfare and Infrastructure Development

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar presented the state's budget for the financial year 2024-25, amounting to Rs 1.89 lakh crore, marking an 11% increase from the previous year. The budget, devoid of any new taxes, emphasises support for farmers, infrastructure development, and welfare measures.

In a significant move aimed at alleviating the financial burden on farmers, CM Khattar announced the waiver of interest and penalties on loans for more than 5 lakh farmers. Those farmers who repay their loans by May 31, 2024, will benefit from this scheme, providing much-needed relief to the agricultural community.

Highlighting the importance of agriculture, Khattar stated that 14 crops would be procured at Minimum Support Price (MSP), ensuring fair remuneration for farmers. The state witnessed a commendable 8.1% increase in agricultural production in the previous fiscal year, underscoring the government's commitment to boosting the agricultural sector.= In addition to loan waivers, the budget includes several measures aimed at improving farmers' livelihoods. An amount of Rs 29,876 crore has already been disbursed directly into farmers' accounts for the kharif and rabi seasons of 2023.

The budget also prioritises technological advancements in agriculture, with a provision of Rs 10 crore for promoting drone manufacturing in Haryana. Furthermore, 550 women, termed as 'drone didis,' will receive training to operate drones for agricultural purposes, enhancing productivity and efficiency in farming practices. Recognizing the sacrifices of freedom fighters, CM Khattar announced an increase in the monthly honour allowance from Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000, providing better support to those who fought for the nation's independence.

The budget also focuses on strengthening defence preparedness by establishing three Armed Forces Preparation Institutes in Haryana. These institutes aim to groom youth for service in defence and paramilitary forces, contributing to national security.

Additionally, the families of martyred soldiers will receive an ex-gratia amount of Rs 50 lakh, which will be further increased to Rs 1 crore, irrespective of their defence service. Infrastructure development and welfare schemes for marginalised sections also feature prominently in the budget. The state government plans to set up eight new government animal hospitals and 18 animal dispensaries to provide veterinary services at the doorstep of livestock owners, especially in areas with limited access to such facilities.

Moreover, under the Haryana Antyodaya Parivar Parivahan Yojana, impoverished families will be entitled to free bus travel for up to 1000 kilometres annually, benefiting approximately 22.89 lakh families with an annual income of up to Rs 1 lakh.

In conclusion, CM Khattar's budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 reflects a holistic approach towards addressing the needs of farmers, promoting technological advancements in agriculture, strengthening defence preparedness, and ensuring the welfare of marginalised sections of society. The budget underscores the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development in Haryana.