State Government’s Effort to Present a Balanced Budget – CM Devendra Fadnavis

Tea Reception Held on the Eve of the Budget Session

• No flagship schemes will be discontinued while maintaining financial discipline
• Action will be taken against those making incorrect remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
• Record soybean procurement in the state this year
• Independent evaluation of the 100-day initiative
• Special discussions on the Constitution and Ahilyabai Holkar in the session

Mumbai – “Our aim is to present a well-balanced and strong budget in the legislative budget session. While maintaining financial discipline, we are ensuring that capital expenditure is not affected. At the same time, no flagship scheme will be discontinued,” assured Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during a press conference today.

The press meet was held after the tea reception organized on the eve of the legislative budget session. CM Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar addressed the media. Several ministers, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil, Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan, Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai, Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane, OBC Welfare Minister Atul Save, Marketing and Protocol Minister Jaykumar Rawal, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, and Tribal Development Minister Ashok Uike, were present at the event.

Key Discussions in the Budget Session

CM Fadnavis stated that this would be the new government’s first budget session, lasting four weeks. Two significant discussions are scheduled:

• On March 8, International Women’s Day, a special discussion will be held to mark the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar.
• A two-day discussion on the Indian Constitution will be held to commemorate its Amrit Mahotsav (Platinum Jubilee).

Additionally, five bills will be debated in the session. The government aims for a comprehensive and constructive discussion on all issues, encouraging participation from new legislative members.

Clarification on Healthcare and HSRP Number Plates

Addressing reports about a healthcare file being put on hold, CM Fadnavis clarified that no such file had reached him, nor had he issued any stay. The central government had suggested spending only 5% of funds on capital expenditure instead of 9%. Departments were asked to prioritize projects accordingly.

Regarding the High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) for vehicles, he emphasized that Maharashtra’s rates include GST and installation charges, unlike other states where only base costs are mentioned.

Record Soybean Procurement and Government’s Stand on Media Reports

CM Fadnavis highlighted that this year’s soybean procurement is ten times higher than the highest purchase in the past 15 years. Storage facilities are running out due to the increased stock. He urged the media to present a balanced view to prevent misunderstandings about government policies.

Strict Action Against Remarks on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

“Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is our revered deity. Any incorrect statements about him will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those responsible,” stated CM Fadnavis. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to following Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals.

Evaluation of the 100-Day Initiative

The 100-day government initiative has received an overwhelming response. A review was conducted by the CM and both Deputy CMs, revealing significant progress, including improved office cleanliness and digitization of records. A recent virtual meeting on the initiative was attended by over 7,000 officers and employees.

The initiative will now be evaluated by the Quality Council of India, an independent organization. Outstanding performers will be recognized, and benchmarks will be set for future initiatives.

Deputy CMs Speak on Government’s Commitment

Eknath Shinde: “We are working for the common people and the state’s progress. Welfare schemes are being implemented alongside development projects. The upcoming budget will reflect this vision. The opposition should participate constructively and raise constituency-related issues.”

Ajit Pawar: “The session will focus on resolving public concerns. There will be discussions on the Governor’s address and supplementary demands. The government is prepared to answer every question raised in the session.”

Tea Reception Marks the Beginning of the Budget Session

The tea reception on the eve of the budget session saw the presence of CM Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with cabinet ministers, state ministers, and legislators.