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States Seek Fair Funds & Clear Dues in Pre-Budget Talks with Centre

State representatives described the pre-budget consultation with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as a positive and constructive platform. Multiple states, including Goa, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana, presented their development priorities and requests for continued central scheme funding. West Bengal's finance minister strongly advocated for the release of nearly Rs 1.97 lakh crore in pending central dues, alleging unfair treatment. Other states like Jharkhand and Punjab raised issues of financial constraints, delayed funds, and relief for losses from floods and border tensions.

Key Points: States Present Demands in Pre-Budget Meeting with FM Sitharaman

  • States presented financial needs
  • West Bengal seeks huge pending dues
  • Concerns over central fund delays
  • Requests for continuation of schemes
2 min read

Pre-budget meeting positive and constructive: States' Representatives

Chief Ministers and Finance Ministers from states like Goa, UP, and West Bengal raised financial needs and pending dues in constructive pre-budget consultations.

"West Bengal requested that it should not be treated unfairly and sought the release of nearly Rs 1.97 lakh crore in pending dues. - Chandrima Bhattacharya"

New Delhi, Jan 10

Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers and Finance Ministers from several states on Saturday described the pre-budget consultation meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as a constructive platform to present their states' financial needs and development priorities ahead of the Union Budget.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said his government raised state-specific issues during the meeting and requested the continuation of Central Sector Schemes that have been running for the past five years.

"These schemes are important for Goa's development and should be extended further," he mentioned.

Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna said suggestions were invited from all states and UP presented proposals aimed at moving towards becoming an "Uttam Pradesh."

"Every state expressed its desire to strengthen its financial position and accelerate growth," khanna stated.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said his state highlighted the challenges faced by states and sought more funds for key sectors such as education, health and irrigation.

"These sectors are crucial for long-term development and public welfare," Vikramarka stated.

West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya said all ministers spoke on behalf of their states and placed their concerns before the Centre.

"West Bengal requested that it should not be treated unfairly and sought the release of nearly Rs 1.97 lakh crore in pending dues, explaining in detail the sectors to which these dues belong," she stated.

Jharkhand Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishor said Jharkhand had raised concerns about financial constraints and delays in receiving central funds.

"Under a central scheme, the state has to bear a major share of the cost despite limited resources," he pointed out.

He also alleged that central agencies are often misused in states where the ruling party at the Centre is not in power.

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said Punjab suffered heavy economic losses due to border tensions and floods this year.

He said a relief package of Rs 16 crore was announced earlier but has not yet been received, and the issue was raised again during the meeting.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone from a small state, I appreciate Goa CM raising the issue of continuing central schemes. Stability in funding is crucial for long-term projects. Hope the Finance Minister listens and acts.
S
Suresh O
Punjab's situation is worrying. Border tensions affect our farmers and economy directly. A relief package announced but not received? This is exactly why such meetings are needed – to follow up and get things moving. Jai Hind.
A
Anjali F
Telangana is right to focus on health and education. These are the foundations of a strong state. But the Centre and states need to work as Team India, not as rivals. The blame game helps no one.
K
Karthik V
Constructive meeting is a positive sign. However, the real test is the final budget. Will it address the genuine constraints faced by states like Jharkhand? Hope the spirit of cooperation translates into actual fund allocation.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see the federal dynamics at play. The request for consistent scheme funding (Goa) and the allegation about agency misuse highlight the complex Centre-State relationship. Hope the budget finds a balance.

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