Union Minister Denies Budget Favors Andhra Pradesh Amid Allegations

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri dispelled claims that the Union budget favored Andhra Pradesh, asserting it simply honored commitments from the State Reorganisation Act of 2014. Puri highlighted substantial projects in Maharashtra and allocations across states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Gujarat, while emphasizing economic initiatives benefiting India's youth and environment.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday refuted allegations that the Union budget favored Andhra Pradesh, clarifying it honored commitments from the State Reorganisation Act of 2014. Speaking at a Gujarat BJP-organized press conference, Puri addressed the Opposition's claims of partiality towards NDA-aligned states Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. ''Ask them who signed the State Reorganisation Act....It was the Congress government. It is your commitment. We are fulfilling your commitment,'' he remarked.

Puri highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent announcements, including Rs 1 lakh crore-worth projects for Maharashtra, and significant allocations for other states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Himachal Pradesh, aimed at overall regional development. The minister also emphasized the budget's focus on youth, with promises of job creation and skill development initiatives.

Moreover, Puri underscored Gujarat's enhanced budgetary allocations, touching on grants-in-aid and capital investment assistance. On the economic front, he noted India's progress, citing IMF predictions for 2027 and the nation's fuel price competitiveness. Puri also mentioned strides in biofuel blending and goals for future sustainability.