Initiating the discussion, former Finance Minister, Muzaffar Hussain Baig urged for early measures to reduce the fiscal deficit. “If the present fiscal position is allowed to continue, time will come when the government will be rendered penny less”, he cautioned. He said the 13th Finance Commission had made it mandatory that the fiscal deficit has to be brought down to 3% by 2013-14 otherwise there would a cut in the 14th FC award.
Beig said that over 70% population survives on two prime sectors like Agriculture and Horticulture which need to be given priority so that the economy of the poor people is improved. He pointed out prevailing gaps in Government receipts and disbursements, saying this would further increase the fiscal deficit. He said districts like Rajouri and Kupwara lag much behind to many other districts in terms of development and progress stressing the need for equalisation of services at district levels.
Baig assured the Government of the cooperation from opposition in the implementation of several welfare programmes for the benefit of people.
Mubark Gul while hailing the budget described it farmer friendly. He appreciated enhancement in the monthly remuneration of handicrafts trainees adding that it will go a long way in promoting the handicrafts sector known for its intricate artifacts world over. He appreciated efforts to tap about 6000 MW power potential. He also hailed Anmoal Beti Scheme adding that it will help to reduce girl dropout rate from the school.
Ashok Kumar also hailed the budget proposal for improving power sector especially transmission and distribution system. He suggested more steps for consolidation of basic infrastructure especially in education sector and improving road connectivity in the State.
T.N. Namgyal pointed out that Ladakh region is not being given due share in development sector. He stressed the need is to allot funds for development on the basis of backwardness and area parameters. He also stressed exploitation of abundant mineral resources available in the region.
Ch. Zulfkar critized the budget saying that no proper provision has been kept for the poor people of the State. He said government has failed to provide essential commodities to the people of the State particularly in rural areas. He said agriculture sector has also been ignored in the budget.
Vikar Rasool said the government has failed to provide basic amenities of life to the people particularly in remote areas and demanded opening of more educational institutions. He also demanded allocation of adequate funds for development of those sectors which have direct bearing on public life.
Radhey Sham Sharma appreciated the Finance Minister for framing the people friendly budget. He appreciated the new initiatives taken to improve agriculture sector, sheep husbandry and other vital sectors. He said the budget does not impose any burden on the common man.
Sharma suggested widening of Sunderbani- Nowshera road via Beri Pattan. He also demanded early starting of Jammu- Poonch railway line for which survey stands completed. He also sought amendment in Sher-i-Kashmir Employment programme so that maximum unemployed youth can avail benefits. He demanded establishment of
Feroz Khan said that Ladakh region is always being ignored in every sphere of development and demanded involvement of traders from Ladakh region in the pre-budget meetings and discussions. He sought concession in repayment of loans by the unemployed educated youth of Ladakh region in view of slump in business during winter months.
Khan sought for establishment of Women Development sub offices in the region and equal distribution of funds. He demanded exploitation of abundan herbal medicinal plants in the region under Forest Sector so that economic profile of people of the region is improved.
Krishan Chander hailed the budget proposals saying that due attention has been accorded to every sector. He demanded proper development of tourist places of
A.R. Veeri highlighted the significance of horticulture sector in changing the economic landscape of the State and sought measures for development of cold chain technology. He said about 30 lakh population is dependent on the horticulture sector which he said sustained State’s economy in trying circumstances.
He also demanded adequate measures for dairy development and Animal Health Care. He alleged that only lip service has been given to Agriculture sector in the budget. He also demanded measures for improving low transmission and Grid station capacity.
Baldev Raj Sharma sought improved facilities for the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims in Katra town. He called for launching more water supply schemes to improve drinking water scenario in the town. He demanded steps to curb the exploitation of labourers, ponney walas and others who are associated with trades. He appreciated the move of the government to exempt havan smagri and other related items from the ambit of taxes.
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