Punjab Newsline, Shimla, Feburary 1-
CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here today expressed his disappointment over the Union Government’s budget- 2025-26, labeling it as “inequitable” as the major part of it is focusing on State of Bihar. He highlighted several key areas of concern and called for immediate revisions to address the needs of the wider population of State.
The Chief Minister said that the budget has once again failed to address the pressing issues that plague our country, particularly unemployment, poverty and rising prices. He said the apple growers of the State, who contribute significantly to the State's economy, are facing severe financial constraints and this budget offers no measures to alleviate their struggles or increase the import duties on apples, which would have provided much-needed relief.
Sh. Sukhu said that unfortunately, the budget fails to address the issue of expansion of rail network in Himachal Pradesh. A robust rail network is essential for economic growth, yet it remains overlooked. He said that the allocation for interest free loan of States to Rs. 1.5 lakh crore has not been increased and the tough conditions attached to it do not favour small States like Himachal Pradesh due to cost disabilities.