Guwahati 12th February: The Assam Budget 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, outlines a strategic plan aimed at sustainable growth and job creation, drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India.
- Robust Economic Growth: The budget sets a realistic roadmap for sustainable growth, with a focus on job creation. Assam’s economic growth has consistently exceeded the national GDP growth rate, and the per capita income has more than doubled since the inception of the Double Engine Government in 2016.
- Record Capital Expenditure: Assam has achieved a historic level of capital expenditure, expected to exceed Rs. 20,000 crore in 2024-25 compared to Rs. 16,000 crore in 2022-23. The state has prioritized connectivity, tourism, education, and other sectors to enhance infrastructure development.
- Entrepreneurship and Employment: The budget emphasizes strengthening entrepreneurship and creating employment opportunities. Additional support, including subsidies and grants, will be provided to Self-Help Group (SHG) members for income-generating activities.
- Empowerment of Women: The government continues to support women empowerment initiatives, including expanding the coverage of Orunodoi, providing relief to micro-credit borrowers, and financial support to women entrepreneurs.
- Infrastructure Development: With the launch of Asom Mala 2.0 and several iconic projects, the budget aims to boost infrastructure development, benefiting the citizens of the state.
- Green Growth Initiatives: The budget prioritizes environmental sustainability with plans to plant 3 crore saplings, introduce electric buses, and set up over 1000 MW of renewable energy plants and rooftop solar plants.
- Tea Garden Community Welfare: Special emphasis is placed on the welfare of the Tea Garden community, with increased investment in schools, 3% reservation in government jobs, and addressing their electricity arrears.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Celebrating Assam’s rich cultural heritage is a key theme, with initiatives such as the construction of the Maa Kamakhya Corridor, preservation of land around Satras, pilgrimage to Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and incentivizing cultural events like Bhaona and Raas Lila.
The Assam Budget 2024-25 reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and preserving the state’s cultural identity.
Read More: Assam Government Implements Measures to Promote Electric Vehicles and Environmental Sustainability