Punjab Finance Minister Slams Union Budget as “Disappointing” for Punjab
State’s Key Demands Ignored, Budget Prioritizes BJP’s Political Gains Over National Interests
–Punjab’s Pre-Budget Proposals Completely Overlooked
–No Special Industrial Package for Border Districts
–Crucial Infrastructure & Agricultural Needs Neglected
Chandigarh, February 1:
Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema has strongly criticized the Union Budget 2025-26, calling it a major letdown for Punjab. He stated that the budget is crafted to serve BJP’s political agenda—particularly focusing on the upcoming Bihar elections—instead of addressing the real needs of the nation.
Punjab’s Demands Ignored Despite Pre-Budget Talks
Speaking at a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Cheema expressed deep disappointment that none of Punjab’s proposals, submitted during the pre-budget meeting in Jaisalmer on December 20, 2024, were considered.
see this link also….Budget 2025 Highlights: Income Up to ₹12 Lakh Tax-Free, Major Announcements Unveiled
He criticized the Union government for favoring BJP-aligned states, completely ignoring Punjab’s genuine concerns despite its strategic border location and economic contributions.
Key Demands That Were Overlooked
? Special Industrial Package for Border Districts: Punjab had sought a special package to boost industry and employment in five border districts, but this was ignored.
? ₹1,000 Crore for Border Security: No funds were allocated for strengthening police infrastructure along the 500 km hostile border with Pakistan.
? Railway & Transport Development:
✔ Rajpura to Chandigarh railway line proposal neglected.
✔ No Vande Bharat trains from Amritsar and Bathinda to Delhi.
? No MSP Guarantee or Crop Diversification Support:
Punjab had requested a package to promote crop diversification, given that the state contributes 21% of India’s rice and 51% of wheat to the central pool. However, neither MSP Guarantee nor diversification incentives were included in the budget.
see this link also…..TOP-10…SHORT NEWS….31JANUARY
? Pending Dues & Economic Losses Unaddressed:
✔ Rural Development Fund & National Health Mission dues not released.
✔ No solution to Punjab’s annual loss of ₹800-₹1200 crore due to high interest rates on the Cash Credit Limit (CCL).
Farmers Left in Debt, Not Growth
Cheema slammed the government for raising the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) limit instead of taking steps to increase farmers’ incomes. He argued that this move would only deepen their debt crisis.
Workers & Social Welfare Demands Ignored
? Mid-Day Meal Workers’ Salaries: Punjab had sought an increase in their pay from ₹600/month (for 10 months) to ₹2000/month (for 12 months)—no mention in the budget.
? Anganwadi Workers’ Salary Hike: Ignored despite repeated requests.
“PM’s Love for Punjab is Hollow,” Says Cheema
Concluding his remarks, Cheema accused the Union government of neglecting Punjab’s farmers, traders, and industrialists despite repeated requests. He stated:
? “The Prime Minister claims to have a special bond with Punjab, but the truth is, his government’s actions reflect nothing but deep-seated hostility towards our state.”
