Chandigarh: Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has strongly criticized the Union Budget 2025, accusing the Central government of deliberately sidelining Punjab. He expressed disappointment that despite raising several crucial issues during the pre-budget consultations, the state found no mention of “Punjab” in Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget speech, let alone receiving any financial relief.
Cheema disclosed at a press conference on Saturday that in the pre-budget meeting held in Jaisalmer on December 20, 2024, the Punjab government had placed key demands on multiple sectors such as railways connectivity, Vande Bharat, stubble burning, border security, and agriculture. Among them were a guarantee of MSP, promotion of agricultural diversification, special financial assistance for stubble management, and a dedicated package to support farmers.
But, to his shock, the Union Finance Minister did not even recognize the problems of Punjab. Cheema accused
Highlighting Punjab’s industrial sector, Cheema pointed out that the state government had sought a special industrial package for five districts to boost economic activity and generate employment. However, this demand was completely overlooked. He criticized the Centre for failing to recognize Punjab’s economic potential and not providing incentives for industries to grow in the state.
He also emphasized the need for a strong railway network in Punjab, as better connectivity was essential for trade, agriculture, and industry. The Punjab government had requested the Centre to sanction funds for railway infrastructure development, but the budget did not have any such provisions.
Cheema also reminded that Punjab was a border state which had unique security needs. The Punjab government had sought a package of ₹1,000 crore to strengthen police infrastructure and improve security arrangements in the border areas, especially in the face of rising threats related to drug trafficking and cross-border crimes. However, this essential demand was overlooked by the Central government.
The Finance Minister criticised the Centre’s approach to agriculture, stating that though the budget had talked of increasing the credit limits of farmers, it had not proposed anything significant in enhancing their income or supporting sustainable farming. He contended that increased loan limits would only increase debt burdens rather than providing them with long-term economic stability.
He was also concerned over the lack of support for stubble management. He said, “Punjab has been demanding a complete financial package so that farmers are encouraged to opt for eco-friendly alternatives to burning stubble.” “The Central government claims to care about pollution, but when it comes to taking real action, it refuses to support the states that are most affected,” he said.
Despite his strong criticism of the budget, Cheema expressed hope that Punjab would eventually receive justice. He remarked that financial discrimination against Punjab has persisted since the BJP government came to power at the Centre. However, he maintained that this time, he remains optimistic that Punjab will get some relief.
He further added that the contribution of Punjab to the nation, whether in terms of food production, military service, or economic potential, should not be ignored. “The Centre must recognize Punjab’s importance and address the legitimate demands of the state. The people of Punjab deserve their fair share of development and support,” he added.
The Punjab Finance Minister concluded by calling the Central government to rethink their approach and make sure that Punjab’s grievances are not taken lightly. He also appealed to the political leaders across the state to unite and demand justice for Punjab in its economic and development interests.