Budget aims to sustainable development: Tripura FM

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, March 22, 2025

Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy on Friday said the 2025-26 budget aims at inclusive development despite limited revenue generation avenues. He credited the substantial budget increase over the last seven years to greater central support, higher state tax shares, and improved revenue collection.

The budget estimate has risen by over Rs 4,500 crore this year, reaching Rs 32,423 crore. Capital expenditure has been prioritized, with Rs 7,903 crore allocated, accounting for 19.14 percent of the total budget. Key sectors like education, health, and agriculture have seen increased funding. The agriculture and allied sector received Rs 1,885.42 crore, marking a 9.49 percent rise. Education was allocated Rs 6,166.19 crore, an 11.94 percent increase, while health funding went up by 12.89 percent to Rs 1,948 crore. Panchayat and rural development received Rs 3,685 crore.

The Minister announced 13 new schemes and expressed optimism about the state’s revenue growth. The state's own tax revenue collection has increased to Rs 3,748 crore, with a projected rise to Rs 4,010 crore, while non-tax revenue is expected to reach Rs 504 crore.

Regarding the state’s debt, he said it stands at Rs 21,878.26 crore. While 4.46 percent of the budget is allocated for interest payments and 3.12 percent for loan repayment, the state is eligible for more loans under FRBM norms. However, he emphasized prudent financial management, noting that long-term loans acquired in the last seven years will be repaid later, while previous debts inherited from the Left Front government are being settled now.

The budget proposes a deficit of Rs 429.56 crore, to be addressed through better fiscal management and tax collection. No new taxes have been introduced.

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