Union Budget Inclusive and Progressive: DyCM Shri Shukla

Expresses Gratitude to PM Shri Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Sitharaman

Bhopal, February 1, 2025, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla congratulated Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting an inclusive and progressive Union Budget for the year 2025-26. He said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, this budget will prove to be a milestone in making India self-reliant, prosperous, and a developed nation. The budget encompasses significant measures in education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and tax reforms, benefiting all sections of society.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla expressed gratitude for the health sector provisions in the budget, highlighting the government’s significant steps to expand advanced medical services. He noted that the increased budget for the National Health Mission would strengthen health services in both rural and urban areas. The additional incentives for medical device parks and the public-private partnership (PPP) model will ensure the availability of advanced medical equipment in state hospitals. He also emphasized that establishing specialized centers for treating critical diseases like cancer and heart ailments will elevate health services to a new level.

Steps Towards Accessible and Affordable Healthcare

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla stated that making life-saving drugs tax-free is a visionary move that will reduce healthcare costs for the common people. Establishing daycare cancer centers in every district will ensure treatment for critical diseases in remote areas. The decision to reduce the cost of medical equipment and cancer drugs will bring revolutionary changes in the health sector. A 5% reduction in customs duty on six life-saving drugs and exempting 13 patient assistance programs from basic customs duty will provide significant relief to the general public. These measures are a major step toward making healthcare accessible and affordable, realizing Prime Minister Shri Modi’s vision of a ‘Healthy India.’ The provision to significantly increase medical seats will expand medical education and ensure the availability of skilled doctors in healthcare services.

Significant Relief for Middle-Class Families in Income Tax

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla applauded the Finance Minister for providing historic relief to middle-class families by revising income tax slabs. The tax exemption limit under the new tax regime has been increased from ₹7 lakh to ₹12 lakh. Additionally, the standard deduction has been raised from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. The increase in investment incentives under Section 80C will provide taxpayers with additional savings opportunities. He said this move will not only enhance the purchasing power of the middle class but also encourage savings and investment.

Modern Agricultural Techniques to Boost Productivity

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla highlighted that promoting digital agriculture platforms and expanding the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojna will pave the way for increased farmer income. These initiatives will integrate modern technologies in farming and enhance production capacity. These schemes will strengthen the rural economy. He added that significant investments announced for the development of national highways, railway networks, and rural roads will boost infrastructure development. This step will not only strengthen the transportation network but also improve regional connectivity, providing new momentum to industry and trade.

Boost to Employment Opportunities Through MSME Promotion

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla emphasized that easy loan facilities and special tax exemptions for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will encourage this sector, leading to increased employment opportunities and strengthening the state’s industrial capacity. He also noted that special financial assistance for heritage site development and cultural preservation will elevate the tourism sector to new heights while safeguarding the state’s cultural heritage.

He stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh government will fully utilize the benefits of this budget to propel the state to new heights. He added that this budget is not only a roadmap for development but also a document that empowers every section of society.