Karnataka BJP's Take on Union Budget: A Vision for Viksit Bharat

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Karnataka BJP's Take on Union Budget: A Vision for Viksit Bharat

Synopsis

Karnataka BJP leaders praised the Union Budget for its emphasis on inclusive growth, economic prosperity, and the empowerment of various sectors, positioning it as a significant step towards a developed Bharat.

Key Takeaways

  • Union Budget termed a transformative vision for Bharat.
  • Focus on inclusive growth and economic prosperity.
  • Significant allocations for farmers and middle-class relief.
  • Investment in urban infrastructure and health sectors.
  • Support for Scheduled Caste entrepreneurs and educational enhancements.

Bengaluru, Feb 1 (NationPress) The President of Karnataka's BJP, B.Y. Vijayendra, has referred to the Union Budget as "reform, perform, transform! A budget for Viksit Bharat", asserting that this Budget lays the groundwork for a "future-ready Bharat, fostering inclusive growth, economic prosperity, and fresh opportunities".

He remarked, "Congratulations to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for her eighth consecutive Budget presentation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, promoting growth, innovation, and empowerment across all sectors!"

Vijayendra emphasized: "A Kisan Credit Card Limit of Rs 5 lakh and the Mission for Pulses will empower Karnataka's farmers with improved credit access and productivity; Zero Tax up to Rs 12 Lakh provides historic relief for the middle class, enhancing savings and investments."

"An allocation of Rs 1 lakh crore for Urban Infrastructure and the expansion of UDAN is set to transform Karnataka's cities and boost connectivity. The MSME and Start-up initiatives will simplify credit access, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation. The Jal Jeevan Mission Extension aims to ensure clean drinking water reaches every household," Vijayendra stated while commending the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

"The Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Sitharaman has delivered a delightful surprise for the middle class, enhancing their savings. It strikes a balance between economic and social sectors," remarked former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai.

After the Union Budget presentation on Saturday, Bommai noted that this is a development-driven Budget that will steer India towards being a developed nation by 2047.

"It maintains economic and social equilibrium while prioritizing the poor, farmers, women, youth, and SC/ST communities," he continued.

"This Budget opens vast opportunities for working individuals. Special focus has been placed on research and indigenous technology, particularly in agriculture, promoting self-reliance. Measures have been initiated to ensure self-sufficiency in urea, fertilizers, and seed production."

"The Budget encourages self-employment in rural areas and aims to mitigate rural-to-urban migration. Significant investments have been earmarked for railway and road infrastructure, with health and education sectors receiving priority, especially in cancer prevention efforts," he said.

The BJP MP mentioned that the Union government has introduced an interest-free loan of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for states over 50 years, with Karnataka expected to receive around Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000 crore.

"This is a development-focused Budget, with GDP growth anticipated to reach 7-8 percent by 2025-26. Taxation has been notably simplified, incorporating customs reforms. Special attention has been devoted to cancer treatment, electronics, medical sciences, and emerging technologies, marking this as a highly progressive Budget," he added.

Addressing the media at the party headquarters in Bengaluru on Friday, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, expressed that the Union Budget has brought joy to the nation's populace.

He pointed out that Rs 20,000 crore has been allocated for Scheduled Caste industrialists aiming to establish industries and start-ups, an unprecedented announcement that has lifted the spirits of the youth from Scheduled Castes.

"Anganwadi workers are protesting daily. For these women, the emphasis on providing nutritious food has been highlighted. Additionally, 6,000 extra seats have been added in elite educational institutions, along with an increase of 10,000 medical seats, receiving significant attention," Narayanaswamy stated.

"For the middle class and salaried individuals, the tax exemption threshold was previously set at annual incomes up to Rs 7 lakh. The announcement of raising this limit to Rs 12 lakh was unexpected, providing substantial relief to many, including journalists and middle-class earners of Rs 1 lakh per month," he added.

"For those earning Rs 18 lakh annually, a tax concession of Rs 70,000 has been included. Those making Rs 20 lakh will receive Rs 1.20 lakh in concessions, while individuals with incomes exceeding Rs 25 lakh will encounter a 30 percent tax rate. This signifies a well-balanced consideration for the backward classes, middle class, and Scheduled Castes, laying a foundation for Atmanirbhar Bharat," he stated.

"This will assist the nation in becoming the fourth-largest economy and ultimately a developed nation. The government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, has exerted considerable effort towards this objective. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has presented a Budget that is agreeable to all," he concluded.

However, he acknowledged that criticism from the Congress is to be expected.

"They lack any substantial agenda. Prior to the Budget presentation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had claimed it would not be favorable. Mr. CM, this Budget exceeds expectations. Please refrain from mockery. You may disseminate falsehoods, but the truth will prevail," he remarked.

"You (Siddaramaiah) and your party leader, Sonia Gandhi, addressed President Droupadi Murmu as a 'poor lady.' Such remarks towards the Indian President are unacceptable. One should not resort to such behavior and must acknowledge the truth," Narayanaswamy added.

When inquired about the allocations for Karnataka, he mentioned that he had not yet received complete details but would address the media once he had all the information.

"Cancer centers will be established in all districts, operating as day-care facilities. Until now, such amenities were nonexistent. This will greatly assist individuals and families affected by cancer. This is not the final word; we can continue to advocate for this even after the Budget is presented," he stated.

The President of the Karnataka BJP Mahila Morcha, K. Manjula, expressed, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the forthcoming Budget will bring 'Mahalaxmi Krupa' to the middle class and impoverished sections. It is a matter of honor that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, being a woman, has presented the Budget eight times. Prime Minister Modi has entrusted her with this responsibility. As the Karnataka Mahila Morcha President, I extend my congratulations. The tax exemption up to Rs 12 lakh will greatly benefit working women, and we are grateful for this."