Is the MP Assembly Winter Session Adjourned Sine Die After Passing a Rs 13,156 Crore Supplementary Budget?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Madhya Pradesh Assembly passed a supplementary budget of Rs 13,156 crore.
- Debates highlighted the government's focus on inclusive development.
- Concerns were raised about rising debt and financial management.
- Key allocations include funding for various welfare schemes.
- The session showcased ongoing political tensions between the ruling party and the opposition.
Bhopal, Dec 5 (NationPress) On the final day of the winter session of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, the House approved the second supplementary budget amounting to Rs 13,156 crore following a vigorous debate between the ruling party and the opposition.
The government portrayed the budget as a significant move towards inclusive development, while the opposition raised serious concerns regarding the escalating debt, stalled programs, and alleged financial mismanagement.
During the deliberation, Finance Minister Jagdish Devda detailed the budget allocations, emphasizing the government’s dedication to capital expenditure rather than relying on loans for revenue.
He pointed out specific allocations such as Rs 4,000 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Rs 2,000 crore for procurement agencies, Rs 1,794 crore for the Chief Minister’s Ladli Behna Scheme, and Rs 1,632.50 crore as grants to local bodies per the 15th Finance Commission.
Additionally, Rs 100 crore was designated for the Dharti Aaba Janjawat Gram Utkrisht Abhiyan of the school education sector.
Devda informed the Assembly that around Rs 4,575 crore would be sourced from the Centre and domestic avenues, resulting in a net extra burden of Rs 7,515 crore on the State Consolidated Fund.
Out of this, Rs 7,449 crore falls under the revenue category and Rs 5,020 crore under capital. He asserted that loans were being acquired strictly in accordance with regulations and repayments were timely.
In a direct jab at the Congress party, he claimed that the previous administration borrowed funds to pay salaries and construct homes for its leaders, whereas the current government is investing in infrastructure and welfare.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also addressed the Assembly, reiterating that his administration aims to realize Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
He assured that development would be executed impartially, even in areas represented by opposition members.
Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar challenged the government on the increasing debt and accused it of borrowing at higher interest rates than other states.
He highlighted issues like the blacklisting of over 250 contractors under the Jal Jeevan Mission, stalled projects due to financial constraints, and the unfulfilled promise of Rs 5 crore for MLA funds.
The passing of the supplementary budget thus concluded a tumultuous session, showcasing both the government’s confidence in its development plans and the opposition’s ongoing worries about fiscal responsibility.