How is Haryana Demonstrating Fiscal Vision to the Finance Commission?

Synopsis
Haryana's Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini meets with the 16th Finance Commission, revealing the state's impressive economic growth and welfare initiatives. With a projected GSDP of Rs 677,033 crore for 2024-25, Haryana stands as a model for fiscal responsibility and inclusive growth.
Key Takeaways
- Projected GSDP of Haryana for 2024-25: Rs 677,033 crore
- Second-highest per capita income among major states: Rs 353,182
- First state to procure all crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP)
- 47 lakh families covered under health insurance schemes
- Ranked fifth in overall GST contributions to India
Chandigarh, April 28 (NationPress) - The 16th Finance Commission, led by Arvind Panagariya, convened a meeting on Monday with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The Chief Minister, who also oversees the Finance portfolio, engaged with senior officials in comprehensive discussions aimed at addressing financial challenges and improving resource allocation to stimulate the state's economic progress.
The Chief Secretary, Anurag Rastogi, presented an overview of Haryana's evolution since its inception in 1966, showcasing its role as a key contributor to India’s economic landscape.
The presentation underlined the state's steady advancement towards achieving equitable fiscal federalism, supported by robust economic fundamentals and a visionary strategy for future development.
In terms of economic metrics, the commission was informed that Haryana's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) for 2024-25 is projected to reach Rs 677,033 crore.
Haryana boasts the second-highest per capita income among major states at Rs 353,182.
Additionally, Haryana is recognized as the first state in India to purchase all crops produced within its boundaries at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Emphasizing the state's dedication to inclusive development, the commission learned that Haryana has implemented a unique annual income threshold of Rs 1.80 lakh for identifying Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.
On the health front, it was reported that 47 lakh families, representing 61.84 percent of the state's population, are now beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat and CHIRAYU health insurance initiatives, thus ensuring accessible healthcare for a large segment of its citizens.
The commission was also made aware that despite limited central devolution, fiscal deficits, and liabilities, the state has successfully met the targets set forth by the Finance Commission.
Moreover, Haryana ranks fifth in terms of its contribution to India's overall GST collections for 2024-25.
Furthermore, Haryana leads among major states regarding GST collection per capita for the year 2024-25.
Rajesh Khullar, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Saini, the government is actively implementing numerous welfare schemes for its citizens.
He pointed out that under the Ayushman Bharat initiative initiated by the central government, initially only nine lakh families in Haryana qualified for benefits. Khullar emphasized that the government has expanded these benefits to a broader population.
With the introduction of the Chirayu Haryana Yojana, an additional 32 lakh families are now receiving healthcare benefits, fully funded by state resources.
While the central government covers expenses for only nine lakh families, the state government is financing the benefits for the remaining families from its own revenue.
He advised the commission to consider this significant state initiative when deliberating on central fund allocations, advocating that states implementing central schemes more extensively should receive tailored grants.