Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema expressed disappointment and outrage over the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, citing the Centre's failure to address the state's demands, including a package for crop diversification. Cheema accused the BJP-led government of discriminating against Punjab, alleging step-motherly treatment and deception.
He criticised the reduction of fertilizer subsidies by 36%, claiming it would increase input costs for farmers and contradict the government's promise to double farmers' incomes. Cheema also pointed out that the Budget neglected Punjab's needs in roads, health, and education.
He had previously requested an economic package for crop diversification and industrialization during pre-Budget meetings with Sitharaman, but these were ignored, he claimed.
Cheema condemned the Centre's decision, calling it "anti-Punjab" and "anti-farmer."
Cheema said, "The Centre meted out step-motherly treatment to the people of Punjab and farmers. The BJP-led government deceived the people of Punjab."
He also lamented the lack of incentives for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The Aam Aadmi Party leader's scathing critique reflected Punjab's sense of neglect and disappointment with the Union Budget.
"The government has been claiming to double the income of farmers. But instead of doubling the income, it has rather raised the input cost of farmers," said Cheema.
"This Budget has completely disappointed Punjab," he stated.
"The Centre always seeks to know the priorities of the states during pre-Budget meetings. But the Centre has disappointed Punjab," he said.
"The BJP always discriminates against Punjab and takes anti-Punjab decisions. Today's Budget is anti-Punjab and anti-farmers," he alleged.
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