Punjab Budget 2025: Innovative Initiatives for Prosperity

Punjab Budget 2025: Innovative Initiatives for Prosperity - Rs 2.36 Lakh Crore Plan Unveiled

Health Care

19 hours agoPWG Publications

Punjab Budget 2025: A Strategic Plan for Growth and Development

The Punjab government, led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, has unveiled an ambitious budget of Rs 2.36 lakh crore for the financial year 2025-26. This budget marks a significant step towards addressing critical issues in the state, including drug control, healthcare, education, and environmental protection. Notably, no new taxes have been imposed, ensuring financial stability for citizens.

Key Takeaways from the Punjab Budget 2025

Healthcare Initiatives

Expansion of Health Insurance: The government has allocated ₹5,598 crore for the health sector, marking a 10% increase over the previous year. The Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana will now cover all 65 lakh families in Punjab, offering up to ₹10 lakh annual coverage[1][2].
Sehat Card: Beneficiaries under this scheme will receive a 'Sehat Card' for cashless treatment in both government and private hospitals, enhancing access to healthcare services[2][5].

Drug Control Measures

Drug Census: A first-ever drug census will be conducted to gather comprehensive data on drug abuse and usage patterns across Punjab. This initiative aims to devise effective strategies to combat drug abuse, with an allocation of ₹150 crore set aside[3][4].
Enhanced Enforcement: The budget includes provisions to enhance police preparedness and responsiveness to drug-related issues, ensuring law enforcement is better equipped to handle the challenge[3].

Agricultural Developments

Crop Diversification: The government is promoting crop diversification by incentivizing farmers to grow Kharif maize instead of paddy. This initiative includes a subsidy of ₹17,500 per hectare for farmers switching to maize cultivation[3].
Sustainable Crop Residue Management: An allocation of ₹500 crore has been made to support sustainable crop residue management practices, aiming to reduce stubble burning and promote environmental sustainability[4].

Border Security and Infrastructure

Second Line of Defence: The government plans to deploy 5,000 home guards along the India-Pakistan border, enhancing security in conjunction with the Border Security Force (BSF)[1][3].
Infrastructure Development: The budget focuses on improving connectivity and promoting economic growth through significant investments in infrastructure projects[5].

Education and Social Welfare

Education Sector: An allocation of ₹17,975 crore has been made for the education sector, including funds for the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and PM Poshan Scheme[2].
Social Security Measures: An allocation of ₹9,340 crore is aimed at uplifting citizens, with specific provisions for financial support to the elderly, widows, and persons with disabilities[3].

Fiscal Strategy and Economic Outlook

Punjab's economy has shown a promising growth rate of 9% in the current fiscal year, according to the Directorate of Economics and Statistics. The budget highlights fiscal prudence with an effective revenue deficit of 2.51% and a fiscal deficit of 3.84%[1][4]. The projected revenue is ₹1,11,740 crore, with ₹63,250 crore coming from own tax revenue[2].

Conclusion

The Punjab Budget 2025 is a comprehensive approach to address the state's challenges while fostering growth and development. By focusing on drug control, healthcare expansion, agricultural sustainability, and infrastructure, the government aims to transform Punjab into a progressive and inclusive state.

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