Vijayan Critiques Union Budget for Undermining Federalism
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Synopsis
Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has condemned the Union Budget as a political maneuver that neglects federalism and essential state needs. He criticized the lack of support for agriculture, industry, and social welfare initiatives, calling the budget deeply disappointing for Kerala.
Key Takeaways
- Union Budget seen as a political tool.
- Lack of support for crucial sectors like agriculture.
- Absence of funds for requested projects.
- Disappointment over inadequate financial allocation for Kerala.
- Calls for improved minimum support prices ignored.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 1 (NationPress) Criticizing the Union Budget, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday labeled it as merely a political document that undermines federalism.
“This budget is a political document and directly opposes federalism. It has been formulated with the upcoming Assembly elections in mind. This budget will exacerbate inflation, unemployment, and poverty,” the Chief Minister stated.
He emphasized that vital sectors like agriculture and industry have not been given appropriate attention, while the reduction of subsidies in the agricultural sector persists.
“The MGNREGA, which provided relief to the underprivileged, is also absent from the budget,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister expressed that the budget has been profoundly disappointing for the state of Kerala.
“We had requested a special package of Rs 24,000 crore along with a specific Wayanad landslide package. Given the national significance of the Vizhinjam Port, we sought support for it as well. Unfortunately, none of these requests have been acknowledged. The Union government has also failed to address the long-awaited AIIMS center, railway coach factory, and several other similar projects,” he added.
The Chief Minister noted that although Rs 25 lakh crore was allocated for the states, Kerala received less than Rs 40,000 crore.
“Kerala is being penalized for its advancements in education and other sectors. It is claimed that our state does not require further assistance as we are already performing well in many areas. However, there are fields where Kerala still lags and we receive no support from the Union government to elevate these sectors,” he said.
He also highlighted that Kerala has been advocating for improved minimum support prices for rubber, paddy, and coconut, but these requests have also been overlooked while rubber imports continue unabated.
“Kerala has been severely neglected in this budget, which is unacceptable to us,” stated Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
