Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Diya Kumari presented a four-month interim budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 in the Legislative Assembly, unveiling a series of initiatives for various segments of society.
The most notable announcement was the creation of 70,000 jobs for the youth, along with a 50% road tax exemption for seniors aged 60 and above. However, clarity on reducing taxes on petrol and diesel, despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment during the election campaign, remains elusive.
Diya Kumari informed the assembly that the estimated budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 is Rs 4,86,615 crores. For the initial four months, a budget of Rs 1.10 lakh crores has been proposed.
The 51-page budget speech focused on various aspects, including a ₹150 increase in the pension for elderly and widowed women under the social security pension scheme.
The Finance Minister also announced the initiation of the Gopal Credit Card scheme for farmers, providing loans to 5 lakh Gopalkas (cowherds).
High-tech city modeled after Cyberabad and Gift City
A plan has been unveiled to develop a high-tech city near Jaipur, similar to Cyberabad City near Hyderabad and Gift City in Gujarat. Although no budget allocation was mentioned, the central government supports such initiatives under the Gati Shakti program. Diya Kumari stated that the high-tech city would provide world-class facilities.
Free electricity up to 300 units for those installing solar panels
To promote solar energy, the interim budget outlined incentives for installing solar panels on 5 lakh homes, providing free electricity for up to 300 units for those meeting specified conditions.
Reduction in prices of sugar and Chinese goods
The budget only reduced the prices of sugar and Chinese goods, eliminating the mandi tax on both. This move aims to provide relief to the general public. Additionally, land taxes have been abolished. However, there is no relief for petrol and diesel prices, despite demands from the Rajasthan Food
Commodities Trade Union to reduce taxes.
Chiranjeevi Yojana replaced by Chief Minister Ayushman Yojana
In the budget, the ongoing Chiranjeevi Yojana for free medical treatment has been replaced by the Chief Minister Ayushman Arogya Yojana. This new scheme offers additional facilities for admitted patients and a package for daycare treatment for stays less than 24 hours.
Cancer patients, in particular, are expected to benefit. The Finance Minister did not disclose the coverage details of the Chief Minister Ayushman Arogya Yojana, which will come into effect on April 1.