In its interim budget, Punjab govt focuses on education, agriculture, social security, health

Tribune News Service

Ruchika M Khanna

Chandigarh, March 22

The first government of Aam Aadmi Party presented its Vote on Account budget of Rs 37,120. 23 crore on Tuesday.

This is the money required by the government as routine expenditure for the first three months of 2022-23.

The expenditure to be incurred on payment of interest - Rs 4,788.2 crore - is among the largest chunk of finances to be taken away from the state’s limited income. The internal debt of the state is pegged at Rs 5,442.64 crore.

The maximum allocation has been made in the education sector (Rs 4,643.74 crore), agriculture (Rs 2,367.23 crore), administration of justice and policing (Rs 2,726.95 crore), social security, women and child development (Rs 1,484.64 crore) and health and family welfare (Rs 1,345.61 crore).

The Vote on Account was presented by the newly inducted Finance Minister Harpal Cheema.

Talking to The Tribune, Cheema said that their government had a definite plan on revving up the state’s depleting revenue, by checking tax evasion, reducing expenditure and exploring other means of increasing revenue.

“I have just assumed charge as Finance Minister. But by the time we present our budget in the next three months, we will be ready to incorporate all the guarantees and promises made by the party in the budget,” he said.

11:28 22 Mar

The government will be presenting a detailed budget for 2022-23 later

With maximum amount being set aside for Social security, it seems the government will immediately implement the revised social security pension, including the Rs 1,000 per month for women.

11:26 22 Mar

Priority given to social security, education and power in Interim budget

Maximum money has been set aside for social security at Rs 896 crore, education at Rs 463 crore.

Rs 109 crore set aside for power.

11:22 22 Mar

AAP launches its 1st interim budget

This is the first interim budget of the AAP government.

For the first three months, the government is seeking the permission of the House for a revenue expenditure of Rs 37,120 crore.

11:19 22 Mar

FM Harpal Cheema starts presenting supplementary grants

The Finance Minister Harpal Cheema starts the process for presenting supplementary grants.

Cheema starts presenting his Vote on Account.

About The Author

Tribune News Service

The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.