1. Assam Budget 2024-25 presented by Finance Minister Ajanta Neog in the Assam Assembly.
2. The budget emphasizes sustainable growth and employment opportunities.
3. Assam’s economic growth outpaces national GDP, with per capita income doubling since 2016.
Guwahati, Feb 12: The Assam Budget 2024-25 was presented today by the state’s finance minister, Ajanta Neog, in the Assam Assembly.
Here are the key takeaways from the budget speech:
1. Sustainable Growth and Employment Opportunities:
- The budget provides a realistic roadmap for sustainable growth and focuses on creating employment opportunities. Assam’s economic growth has consistently surpassed the national GDP growth rate, with per capita income doubling since 2016.
- Capital expenditure is set to reach a historic level, exceeding Rs 20,000 crore in 2024-25 compared to Rs 16,000 crore in 2022-23. This increased expenditure will primarily target sectors like connectivity, tourism, and education.
2. Entrepreneurship and Job Creation:
- The government aims to strengthen entrepreneurship in the state by providing additional support in the form of subsidies and grants to self-help group (SHG) members for income-generating activities.
- Efforts to support women’s empowerment include expanding the coverage of Orunodoi to 30 lakh beneficiaries, providing relief to microcredit borrowers, and financially supporting women entrepreneurs.
3. Infrastructure Development:
- The launch of Asom Mala 2.0 and various iconic projects signifies a significant push towards infrastructure development. This initiative is expected to have multiplier effects, benefiting the citizens of Assam.
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4. Green Growth and Renewable Energy:
- The budget emphasizes green growth by pledging to plant 3 crore saplings and introducing electric buses. Additionally, over 1000 MW of renewable energy plants and rooftop solar plants will be set up to promote sustainability.
5. Welfare of Tea Garden Community:
- Special attention is given to the well-being of the tea garden community, with increased investment in schools, 3% reservation in government jobs, and clearing their arrear electricity dues.
6. Cultural Heritage Preservation:
- Celebrating Assam’s rich cultural heritage is a key focus of the budget. Initiatives such as the construction of the Maa Kamakhya Corridor, the preservation of land around Satras, and the promotion of religious pilgrimages aim to preserve and promote the state’s cultural identity.
Overall, the Assam Budget 2024-25 reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, economic development, and the welfare of its citizens.
