Himachal Pradesh Unveils Visionary Budget for 2024-25: A Leap towards Self-Reliant Himachal

Shimla, February 18, 2024: In a historic move, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukkhu presented the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on Saturday, setting the stage for an economically self-reliant Himachal Pradesh. The budget stands out for its innovative approach, especially in bolstering the rural economy and introducing new schemes to uplift the farming and horticulture communities.

Addressing financial challenges, the state government has allocated funds strategically to strengthen the rural economy. A significant step towards this is the increase in the wages of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) workers from ₹240 to ₹300, a move lauded by experts. The budget caters to the needs of impoverished families, introducing the ‘Sukh Shiksha Yojana’ to cover educational expenses for underprivileged children.

The state government has earmarked financial assistance of up to ₹3 lakhs for constructing homes for economically weaker sections, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive growth. In a remarkable move, every citizen, including Anganwadi workers, will receive an honorarium, with Anganwadi workers receiving ₹10,000, Mini Anganwadi workers ₹7,000, and helpers ₹5,500.

The education sector witnesses a boost with an increment of ₹1,900 in honorarium for teachers in EGS and IT categories. Sewing instructors receive an additional ₹500, recognizing their valuable contribution. The Panchayati Raj institutions also benefit from the budget, with increased honorariums for members of Panchayat bodies and urban local bodies.

For citizens aged 70 and above, the Chief Minister Sukkhu announced the ‘Arogya Yojana,’ aiming to provide health coverage. Additionally, the government plans to construct ten Rajiv Gandhi Model Day Boarding Schools to enhance the quality of education. A special allocation of ₹330 crores has been made for technical education, emphasizing the importance of skill development.

Agricultural schemes receive a substantial boost with the announcement of the ₹680-crore Rajiv Gandhi Natural Farming Startup Plan. The dairy sector sees support with increased procurement prices for milk, encouraging dairy farming and minimizing the risks associated with stray cattle.

Chief Minister Sukkhu’s budget is expected to elevate the state’s development trajectory, bringing prosperity and welfare to every citizen.