No roadmap for jobs: Hooda
Despite high expectations following the state elections in October 2024, the Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, failed to allocate any major projects to Haryana, leaving its wish list unmet. However, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini hailed the Budget, asserting that it would boost the country’s development.
“The increase in loan limits on the Kisan Credit Card, the prioritisation of 100 districts with low agricultural productivity under the Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana and the raised loan guarantee cover for MSMEs will greatly benefit farmers and small industries. Additionally, the Budget will empower women entrepreneurs and startups. The reforms in education and health sectors are historic,” said CM Saini.
In contrast, former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda dismissed the Budget, arguing that it had failed all sections of society.
This marks the second consecutive year that Haryana has not been allocated any major projects or schemes. This is despite the state electing a BJP government for the third term. BJP leaders, however, defended the Budget, arguing that project allocations are based on necessity rather than regional considerations.
“Any scheme benefiting farmers, women, youth and the poor will naturally benefit Haryana as well. It would be unfair to say that Haryana has been ignored, especially since it is an agricultural state and the Budget has a special focus on farmer welfare,” said a BJP leader.
During the pre-Budget meeting, Haryana had sought special grants for key infrastructure projects, including Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor, Delhi-Panipat Fast Rail Corridor and Multi-Logistics Hub in Mahendergarh (NCR). However, these demands found no mention in the Budget.
