Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister addressed the media on July 27, 2024, unveiling key provisions of the Union Budget 2024-25 and also highlighted significant benefits for Tamil Nadu. He described the budget as forward-looking and aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for India 2047, informed Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, PIB.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stated, “Every State including Tamil Nadu is getting its due Budget share and that there is no room for politics.” Earlier, Dr Jitendra Singh also addressed and held an interactive session on the Budget with prominent intellectuals, opinion makers, trade leaders, chartered accountants, Economy scholars and others.
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The Minister stated that Tamil Nadu is one amongst the states that received the highest allocation of ₹6,362 crore. He then added that the state also benefitted from, “the introduction of 6 new Vande Bharat trains and the upgrade of 77 railway stations under the Amrit Rail initiative.” The railway budget for Tamil Nadu has seen an eightfold increase compared to the UPA era, rising from ₹879 crore to ₹6,362 crore, underscoring the central government’s commitment to enhancing the state’s transportation infrastructure.
Minister for Earth Sciences, while addressing the Blue Economy’s potential, laid stress on creating opportunities through Tamil Nadu’s vast coastline. The Ministry also informed that substantial support and priority has been given to the Fisheries sector and the Deep Sea Mission to increase the economic growth through the budget, whilst also aiming towards sustainable development and economic diversification.
He further emphasised that the “Modi government has prioritised empowering women-led governance. The focus has shifted from merely encouraging women’s participation to actively supporting women-led government initiatives. To this end, the budget has earmarked ₹3 lakh crore to advance this crucial objective.”
Further, the Ministry has stated, “Tamil Nadu’s overall share in the Union Budget 2024-25 reflects a significant increase in financial support, with a 94.95% rise in tax devolution and a 157.58% increase in Grants in Aid compared to previous periods. The allocation of ₹50,873.76 crore highlights the central government’s dedication to supporting Tamil Nadu’s economic growth and development.”
Responding to state government’s allegations of neglecting Tamil Nadu in the current budget, the Minister clarified that the State has indeed received its due share. “He criticised the state government for being unresponsive and failing to utilise the opportunities provided. He also highlighted the state government’s neglect of water resources. The Minister emphasised that under PM Modi’s leadership, there has been a shift towards equitable distribution of resources among states,” the Ministry added. He also said that Tamil Nadu is receiving budget allocations in various sectors that is either equal or even exceed in comparison to other states.
The Minister stressed that the Union Budget 2024-25 lays a solid groundwork for Tamil Nadu’s ongoing growth and success, reflecting the central government’s thoughtful and comprehensive plan for the state’s advancement through strategic funding and impactful initiatives.
