TNR Desk
The budget session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly commenced on Wednesday (February 14, 2024) morning with the traditional address by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla. The 13-day session, slated to run until February 29, opened with a focus on government achievements and forthcoming legislative priorities.
Governor Shukla’s address highlighted the government’s accomplishments, setting the tone for the legislative agenda ahead. Following the gubernatorial speech, the Assembly proceeded with condolence proposals, notably mourning the passing away of Simmi Agnihotri, the wife of Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri.
As the session progresses, the agenda for the second day includes the commencement of the question hour at 11 am, where Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is poised to present the state budget on February 17.
With anticipation running high, speculations abound regarding the financial blueprint for the upcoming fiscal year. It is projected that the Chief Minister may unveil a budget amounting to approximately Rs 56,000 crore, with a keen focus on sustainable development and rural welfare.
Drawing inspiration from previous budgetary allocations, the government is expected to prioritise initiatives aimed at promoting renewable energy, particularly solar power and bolstering the agricultural sector. Schemes geared towards enhancing the welfare of various demographics, including employees, women, youth and the elderly, are also anticipated to feature prominently in the budgetary allocations.
However, concerns loom over potential disruptions during the subsequent days of the session. Speculations suggest the possibility of uproar and contention arising in the aftermath of the budget announcement following protests by opposition BJP over the alleged poor condition of the state’s finances, joblessness and other issues.
