THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 28: Chief Minister Hemant Soren emphasized the need to prepare a budget that addresses fundamental issues and paves the way for the state’s all-round development. He highlighted the importance of utilizing resources effectively to achieve this goal.
Speaking at a pre-budget seminar for the Abua Budget 2025-26 at the Jharkhand Ministry today, the Chief Minister noted that experts across various fields have shared significant and practical suggestions. These inputs, he said, would be studied and considered to craft a budget aimed at sustainable and inclusive growth.
Strong Financial Resources Are Key to Development
The Chief Minister stressed that Jharkhand must generate and utilize its own revenue to become self-reliant. He pointed out that while funds need to be allocated across various sectors, progress is only possible if the state strengthens its financial resources. He urged all departments to take concrete steps to identify new opportunities for revenue collection.
Development Achieved Despite Limited Resources
Acknowledging the state’s limited resources, CM Soren said his government has made significant progress in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, electricity, water, and roads. He assured that ongoing development efforts will continue, with the ultimate goal of transforming Jharkhand into a prosperous and developed state.
Planning for Long-Term Sustainable Growth
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of creating long-term plans for sustainable development, likening it to constructing a building on a strong foundation. He said his government is prioritizing projects that will provide maximum benefits in the future by focusing on building this solid foundation.
Progress Amid Challenges
Reflecting on Jharkhand’s journey since becoming a separate state, CM Soren acknowledged its ups and downs but highlighted its many achievements. He pointed to the state’s recent success in the Health Index as an example of progress but stressed the need to set higher standards in other sectors. “We must continue moving forward with enthusiasm and collaboration,” he added.
Evaluating the Outcomes of Budget Spending
The Chief Minister called for a more outcome-oriented approach to budget spending. He observed that there has been little focus on evaluating the impact of funds allocated to various departments. As a result, many assets created remain underutilized. To address this, he urged better management of resources and careful consideration of both the positive and negative aspects when planning new projects.
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70% of Jharkhand’s Population Lacks Budget Planning
CM Soren pointed out that 70% of Jharkhand’s population does not plan their income and expenditure, which leaves them at a disadvantage. However, he noted that government initiatives and policies are empowering these individuals by providing resources and opportunities for economic growth.
Recognition for Jharkhand’s Flagship Schemes
Highlighting the Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiyaan Samman Yojana, a scheme aimed at empowering women, the Chief Minister said it has earned the state recognition nationwide. He assured that the scheme would not burden any specific group, as its funding would come from internal resources.
Focus on Employment Generation in the Budget
CM Soren stressed that the upcoming budget should prioritize employment generation, with provisions for both job creation and self-employment opportunities. He called for concrete measures to address employment-related challenges.
Experts Provide Valuable Budget Suggestions
Experts from various fields shared key recommendations for Budget 2025-26. These included:
- Education: Former UNICEF Education Specialist Vinoba Gautam.
- Development Economics: Prof. S Chandrashekhar, Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research.
- Higher Education: Prof. Sudhanshu Bhushan, NIEPA.
- Agriculture: Dr. Nidhi Agarwal, IIM Udaipur.
- Public Finance: Prof. VN Alok, Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi.
The Chief Minister honoured these experts for their contributions.
Recognition for Best Suggestions on Abua Budget Portal
During the seminar, CM Soren awarded Anish Kumar Murarka, Nitish Kumar, and Ram Pravesh Ram for submitting the best suggestions via the Abua Budget Portal. Certificates of appreciation were also distributed to others who provided valuable inputs.
Seminar Attendees
The pre-budget seminar was attended by Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore, Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Avinash Kumar, Principal Secretary Mastram Meena, Secretary Prashant Kumar, and State Finance Commission member Dr. Harishwar Dayal. Also present were principal secretaries, department heads, and experts from across the country.
