Interim Budget: MRM Applauds Govt’s Emphasis on Public Welfare, Poverty Alleviation and Heightened Dignity

The Muslim Rashtriya Manch hailed the Interim Budget 2024, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, as a testament to a myriad of accomplishments. The forum expressed satisfaction with the nation’s economy progressing toward robust empowerment, emphasizing citizens, farmers, women, youth, and infrastructure. Notably, common man’s income has surged by 50 percent, poverty has diminished, and respect for the populace has heightened. The Lakhpati Didi Yojana has fostered self-reliance among approximately 9 crore women, with unprecedented strides in health, education, and transportation sectors.

Government of Public Concern:

Forum spokesperson Shahid Sayeed lauded the interim budget as a government deeply concerned with public welfare, describing it as a well-balanced and groundbreaking initiative. Continuous efforts to uplift the youth, farmers, women, and the general public were underscored, along with a strong focus on bolstering infrastructure. The PM Suryodaya Yojana aims to install solar systems on one crore houses, while three new corridors for energy, minerals, and cement are set to be initiated. The government’s commitment to strengthening Rail, Metro and Air travel was also acknowledged.

Poverty Reduction, Increased Respect:

National Convener of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Mohammad Afzal, applauded Finance Minister’s achievement in lifting 25 crore people out of poverty. The forum acknowledged the government’s unwavering commitment to farmers, evident in initiatives like Kisan Samman Nidhi and PM Fasal Yojana. Currently, 11.8 crore farmers benefit from Kisan Samman Nidhi, and 1361 new markets have been established, crucial for farmers’ self-reliance.

High and Self-reliant India:

National Convener Shahid Akhtar welcomed announcements such as the opening of 3000 new ITIs, 15 new AIIMS, 390 new universities, and additional medical colleges. He described it as a new chapter for a prosperous and high India, with a 50 percent increase in the common man’s income. The PM Swanidhi Scheme, launched under the Self-reliant India campaign, received praise for assisting 18 lakh vendors. The forum also commended Skill India, which trained 1.40 crore candidates, promoting employment.

Also Read: Congress Slams Interim Budget 2024-25; ‘It Has Undermined Federalism,’ Says Chidambaram

Emphasis on Women Empowerment:

Shalini Ali, Women’s head of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, lauded the government’s efforts for women empowerment, highlighting various schemes announced in the interim budget. Noteworthy announcements include the extension of Ayushman Bharat benefits to Anganwadi and Asha sisters, a free vaccination scheme for girls aged 9 to 14 to prevent cervical cancer, and the expansion of the Lakhpati Didi Yojana. The government’s housing scheme, PM Awas Yojana, has seen 70 percent of houses owned by women, with plans to build 2 crore more houses in the next 5 years.

Traveling Will Get Wings:

In the realm of Air, Rail, and Metro transport & traveling, the government’s emphasis on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities was highlighted. The number of airports has risen to 149, with new facilities being added. Airlines are set to include 1000 new aircraft to accommodate the growing number of passengers. The government’s commitment to Indian Railways, Metro, and the Namo Bharat and metro train initiatives is expected to yield substantial benefits for the country.

Difference Between Then and Now:

The forum drew a distinction between the past and present, noting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to eradicating corruption. Through initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana, the government has ensured direct benefits to the public, preventing corruption and disbursing approximately Rs 34 lakh crore directly to the people—an achievement worthy of commendation.