AIZAWL: Chief Minister Lalduhoma, who also holds the finance portfolio, presented the maiden budget of the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government during the 9th Mizoram Legislative Assembly on Tuesday
The state’s financial blueprint for 2024-25, excluding Charged Expenditure, stands at Rs 13,176.85 crore, with an additional Supplementary Demand (Voted Expenditure) for 2023-24 totalling Rs 3,287.93 crore.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma outlined a vision of consolidation for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting the government’s commitment to reducing fiscal deficits and mitigating high debt levels.
Key initiatives include the introduction of “Kalphung Thar – Mipui Sawrkar,” a new governance system, and the implementation of the Chief Minister’s 100 Days Programme.
The government has pledged to foster balanced economic growth, environmental conservation, and social equity while empowering various sectors through innovative policies like the Hand Holding Policy and support for cash crop cultivation.
Efforts to strengthen social security, extend welfare services, enhance power generation and supply underscore the government’s commitment to holistic development.
Education reforms, infrastructure enhancement, and disaster management initiatives are also prioritised, reflecting a multi-faceted approach to state advancement.
To ensure accountability and effective project implementation, the establishment of two committees—the Mizoram Project Monitoring Committee and the Mizoram State Policy Coordination Committee—will oversee project quality, efficiency, and policy matters.
In the healthcare sector, the government plans to provide free mortuary van services, allocating ₹5 crore for this purpose, and earmarking ₹20 crore for healthcare financing.
Looking ahead, the government anticipates significant strides in power infrastructure, social security enhancement, and gender equality promotion.
A commitment to freeze power tariffs underscores efforts to alleviate financial burdens on citizens while exploring alternative revenue streams to bolster the state’s economy.
Increased contributions to the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme and allocations for Autonomous District Councils reflect the government’s dedication to inclusive growth.
Despite fiscal constraints, Mizoram is poised to leverage its resources for optimal impact, with a keen focus on efficient resource utilisation and strategic investments in key sectors.
