Hooda Calls Union Budget 'Disappointing', Accuses Neglect of Key States

Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda slammed the Union Budget for ignoring pressing issues like unemployment and inflation. He criticized the focus on Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, claiming Haryana and other states were neglected. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's budget centers on economic growth with significant projects for specific states.

Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda on Tuesday labeled the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as 'disappointing.' He argued that the budget fails to address 'record unemployment' and rising prices. Hooda pointed out that while the budget focused on Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, states like Haryana were left out of the discourse.

Hooda emphasized that with Haryana approaching assembly polls this year, ignoring the state could lead voters to forget the ruling BJP. 'This budget was a complete disappointment. It did not include measures to tackle record unemployment and rising inflation. There was no support for large segments of society, including the poor and farmers,' Hooda stated.

The Congress leader also highlighted that the budget mentioned Bihar and Andhra Pradesh multiple times, allocating projects crucial for BJP allies JD-U in Bihar and TDP in Andhra Pradesh. These projects include significant infrastructure and development initiatives.

Hooda expressed discontent that the budget ignored many states, including Haryana. 'The Finance Minister did not even mention Haryana,' he said. Nirmala Sitharaman's seventh consecutive Union Budget for 2024-25 outlined nine key priorities for economic growth and revealed major announcements for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.

Sitharaman announced support for the Amritsar-Kolkata industrial corridor, including an industrial nod at Gaya in Bihar. The budget also funds road connectivity projects like the Patna-Purnia Expressway and several others at a total cost of Rs 26,000 crore. Additionally, new power plants, airports, and medical colleges will be constructed in Bihar.

The Finance Minister also promised flood control measures and significant irrigation projects for Bihar, with funding coming from programs like the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme, valued at Rs 11,500 crore.

Sitharaman also reiterated commitments to Andhra Pradesh under the Reorganization Act, including financial support for the Polavaram Irrigation Project. The new budget year includes allocations for industrial development along major corridors in Andhra Pradesh and grants for development in backward regions.