Punjab Govt Presents Key Demands at Pre-Budget Meeting, Tags Nirmala Sitharaman

The Punjab government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has submitted a set of critical demands at the Pre-Budget Meeting to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. These demands aim to address border security, agricultural challenges, and industrial development, ensuring comprehensive growth for the state.

Punjab Govt. under CM @BhagwantMann seeks for Key Demands at Pre-Budget Meeting:

✅ Rs.1,000 Cr for police modernization in border districts.
✅Industrial incentives like J&K and hill states for MSMEs.
✅ Restore NABARD ST-SAO limit to Rs. 3,041 Cr to support farmers.
✅ Rs. 100… pic.twitter.com/onTpVRCvBb

— AAP Punjab (@AAPPunjab) December 23, 2024

Finance Minister Harpal Cheema represented Punjab's concerns and aspirations during the meeting, emphasizing the state's need for financial support in various sectors.

Border Security and Industrial Incentives

The government has sought ₹1,000 crore for police modernization in border districts to strengthen security measures and infrastructure. Additionally, Punjab has requested industrial incentives for its Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on par with those provided to Jammu & Kashmir and hill states.

Support for Farmers and Crop Diversification

Farmers remain at the heart of Punjab’s agenda. The state has urged the restoration of NABARD's Short-Term Seasonal Agricultural Operations (ST-SAO) limit to ₹3,041 crore to support agricultural lending. To tackle stubble burning, Punjab has asked for ₹1,600 crore for crop residue management and an incentive of ₹2,500 per acre for farmers adopting eco-friendly practices.

In a move to promote sustainable agriculture, the government has proposed a special budget for paddy diversification, targeting 10 lakh hectares for alternative crops.

Infrastructure and Reimbursement Requests

Punjab has also requested ₹100 crore under the PM Gati Shakti initiative for the NH 44-IMC road. Moreover, the government seeks ₹6,857 crore as Rural Development Fund (RDF) reimbursement.

These demands, if fulfilled, are expected to enhance Punjab's economic resilience, promote sustainable development, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Finance Minister Harpal Cheema stressed the urgent need for these allocations to address the challenges faced by the state effectively.