CHANDIGARH, 22 July
Acknowledges Punjab’s Historical and Contemporary Contributions to India
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has made a compelling case for a special financial package for the state, emphasizing Punjab’s significant contributions to India’s food self-sufficiency and its sacrifices both before and after independence.
Request for Substantial Funding
In a meeting with the 16th Finance Commission team, Mann requested funds amounting to Rs 1,32,247 crore to spur the state’s development. This comprehensive package includes:
- Rs 75,000 crore for general development
- Rs 17,950 crore for agriculture and paddy diversification
- Rs 5,025 crore to combat stubble burning
- Rs 8,846 crore for addressing narco-terrorism and drug abuse
- Rs 6,000 crore for industrial revitalization
- Rs 9,426 crore for urban local bodies
- Rs 10,000 crore for rural local bodies
Focus on Crop Diversification and Sustainability
Chief Minister Mann highlighted the urgent need for crop diversification to alleviate the current crisis faced by farmers. He stressed the importance of reducing the reliance on water-intensive crops to preserve Punjab’s rapidly depleting groundwater resources.
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Advocacy for Enhanced Law Enforcement
Given Punjab’s unique challenges as a border state, Mann advocated for modernizing the state’s police force to efficiently handle narco-terrorism and border security. He also praised the Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) for its role in saving lives since its inception.
Financial Prudence and Economic Growth
Mann detailed the state government’s efforts to implement reforms aimed at enhancing governance transparency and economic growth. He noted the impressive increase in the state’s tax revenue, with GST revenue up by 33% and excise revenue by over 50%, attributing these gains to robust administration and honest governance.
Industrial Development and Innovations
Mann also underscored the state’s strides in industrial development, noting interest from major companies like Tata Steel. He highlighted innovative initiatives like the introduction of color-coded stamp papers to facilitate business operations and stimulate industrial growth.
Call for Support from the Finance Commission
In his concluding remarks, Mann urged the Finance Commission to generously allocate funds to help Punjab overcome its unique challenges and continue its journey towards sustainable development and prosperity. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to restoring Punjab’s historic glory and ensuring a bright future for its citizens.
Commitment to Punjab’s Prosperity
Mann assured that, with the Commission’s support, the state government would revitalize Punjab’s economy, making it more resilient and capable of achieving its full potential. He emphasized that Punjab has always risen to the occasion in the face of adversity and will continue this tradition with renewed vigor.
