Ranchi: A pre-budget consultation workshop for the upcoming FY2025-26 state budget was organized at the Project Bhawan on 16th January 2025, under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore. The event gathered experts from various sectors such as agriculture, irrigation, forest and environment, rural development, livelihoods mission, urban development, tourism, industries, and mining.
The primary aim of the workshop was to solicit suggestions that would enhance the welfare of Jharkhand’s diverse communities – especially farmers, tribal populations, and residents of remote areas. These inputs will be incorporated into the upcoming state budget to create inclusive growth and development, keeping in mind the economic, social, and geographic realities of Jharkhand.
The “Abua Budget” to Focus on Inclusive Development
Minister Radhakrishna Kishore highlighted that Chief Minister Hemant Soren had named the FY 2025-26 budget as the “Abua Budget,” with a strong emphasis on improving the lives of the state’s marginalized communities, especially those in the forests and remote villages. Kishore emphasized that the budget would focus on creating happiness and prosperity for people from all sections of society, irrespective of their caste, creed, or religion.
The budget will be prepared considering the state’s culture, traditions, and geographical setting, with a holistic approach to economic, social, and infrastructural development. Kishore further emphasized the importance of monitoring the implementation of budgetary plans to ensure their effective execution on the ground.
Conserving Water and Strengthening Rural Economy
In his address, Minister Kishore also stressed the need for rainwater harvesting in Jharkhand to conserve water, enhance irrigation systems, and improve groundwater levels. He noted that the rural economy, particularly agriculture, would receive significant attention in the budget. He advocated for promoting horticulture and strengthening the farming community by providing better irrigation and resources for diversified farming.
Addressing the challenges faced by forest dwellers, Kishore mentioned the lack of connectivity and basic amenities in remote areas. He suggested improving road infrastructure and promoting the production of Mahua-based alcoholic beverages to boost the rural economy.
Empowering Women and Strengthening Agriculture
Minister of Rural Development, Smt. Deepika Pandey Singh, emphasized that the upcoming budget would focus on women’s empowerment. With approximately 32 lakh women associated with the Jharkhand State Livelihoods Promotion Society (JSLPS), the budget aims to support them economically and promote self-employment through schemes like the Maiyaan Samman Yojana. It will also focus on financially training women and connecting them to urban markets.
Agriculture Minister, Smt. Shilpi Neha Tirkey, shared that the budget would strengthen the economic condition of farmers, focusing on irrigation and the promotion of multi-cropping systems. Tirkey also highlighted the Birsa Pathshala program, which aims to provide training to farmers and enhance their capacity to improve farming practices. Additionally, the upcoming budget will support livestock farming, dairy development, and fisheries, with a particular focus on improving resources for Rabi crops.
Irrigation and Infrastructure Development in Focus
Principal Secretary of Water Resources and Finance, Mr. Prashant Kumar, spoke about proposals for enhancing irrigation facilities in Jharkhand, including the strengthening of existing water bodies and the creation of new ponds in villages. Solar-powered irrigation and micro-irrigation systems will also be prioritized. Additionally, efforts to bolster tourism and mining sectors were discussed to stimulate economic growth and generate revenue.
Experts at the event suggested promoting natural farming and including Jharkhand Millets in the budget, as well as focusing on value addition in rural products and skill development programs for rural youth and women.
A Vision for the Future
The workshop concluded with a call for a vision document outlining the state’s development trajectory over the next 25 years. With a focus on sustainability, rural development, and the upliftment of marginalized communities, the 2025-26 “Abua Budget” is set to bring significant changes to Jharkhand’s economic landscape.
Prominent Experts from Diverse Sectors Contribute to Pre-Budget Workshop
The pre-budget consultation workshop saw the presence of several esteemed experts from different sectors, offering their invaluable suggestions for the FY 2025-26 budget. In the field of Agriculture & Irrigation, experts like Prem Shankar and Neeraj Kumar shared their insights on improving farming practices and water management systems. Prof. Dev Nathan, a prominent figure in Forest & Environment, emphasized sustainable development and forest conservation strategies. Livelihood Promotion specialists Dheeraj Horo and Tushar Singh highlighted approaches for strengthening rural economies and promoting self-reliance, especially for women and marginalized communities. In the second session, experts from Urban Development, including Sandip Jha, provided recommendations on enhancing infrastructure and city planning. Dr. Amritanshu Prasad and CA Ranjeet Garodia from the Industries sector discussed boosting industrial growth and creating employment opportunities. For the Mining sector, Prof. Sahendra Singh and Arun Kumar Shukla stressed the need for sustainable mining practices and improving revenue generation. In Tourism, experts Amitava Ghosh and Bhupesh Kumar proposed initiatives to promote Jharkhand as a key tourist destination, enhancing the state’s economy and creating new avenues for employment.
