Rajasthan budget should address structural issues

The Hindu, January 11, 2022

A pre-budget consultation with the civil society groups in Rajasthan has thrown up the issues of livelihood, food security, right to health and socio-economic impact of the pandemic.

Social activists and development practitioners suggested that the budgetary allocations and schemes should be aligned to address the structural issues faced by focus sectors.

The State government’s Finance Department took note of the suggestions made for catering to the needs of vulnerable sections through budgetary interventions and driving economic recovery and growth while dealing with the pandemic.

Principal Secretary (Finance) Akhil Arora interacted with the representatives of civil society and voluntary groups, while identifying the scope for making budgetary provisions for different sectors.

Consumer Unity & Trust Society (CUTS International) Secretary-General Pradeep S. Mehta said the State should accord the highest priority to increasing the employment and income generation opportunities.

The representatives of Suchna Evum Rozgar Adhikar Abhiyan made suggestions for strengthening the public distribution system, decentralisation of schemes for Dalits and tribals and streamlining of payment of social security pensions.

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