BJP Dhubri Unit Lauds Union Budget as 'Financial Gift Bucket' for Northeast Region
The Bharatiya Janata Party's Dhubri district unit has enthusiastically described the recently presented Union Budget as a 'bucket full of financial gifts' specifically tailored for the northeastern states, with a particular emphasis on Assam. This characterization came during a media briefing held at the party office on Tuesday, where local leaders outlined the budget's transformative potential for the region.
Leadership Highlights Assam's Strategic Role in Purvoday Initiative
Addressing journalists, a delegation including district president Ranjit Kumar Ray, former legislator Ashwani Roy Sarkar, RK Puram legislator Arun Sharma, and Minority Morcha president DK Surana elaborated on the budget's provisions. DK Surana, in a conversation with TOI, emphasized that the budget firmly positions Assam as the central pillar of the government's ambitious 'Purvoday' (Rise of the East) initiative. He noted a significant paradigm shift, stating that the region is no longer viewed primarily through a security lens but is now recognized as a vital 'Connector Economy' linking India with Southeast Asia.
Key Budgetary Allocations and Development Focus Areas
Surana detailed several major allocations and strategic initiatives outlined in the budget that are poised to benefit Assam and the northeast:
- A substantial allocation of Rs 40,000 crore dedicated to the semiconductor mission, manufacturing sectors, and other strategic industries.
- Plans for the operationalization of 20 new national waterways within the next five years to enhance connectivity.
- A strong emphasis on comprehensive development, including city and regional infrastructure projects, improvements in Tier II and Tier III towns, housing schemes, education, skill development, and fostering the creative economy.
Specific Financial Provisions for Assam's Regions and Cities
The budget includes targeted financial packages for specific regions within Assam:
- Karbi Anglong is set to receive Rs 200 crore for its development.
- Bodoland has been allocated Rs 156 crore to support growth initiatives.
- A proposal for 4,000 electric buses across Purvoday states, with a significant portion earmarked for deployment in Guwahati and other Tier II towns across Assam, promoting sustainable urban transport.
Buddhist Circuit Scheme to Boost International Tourism
Surana also highlighted the Buddhist Circuit scheme as a key component of the budget. This initiative is aimed at developing and preserving Buddhist heritage sites across Assam and neighboring states. He asserted that this focused effort would significantly boost international tourism, attracting pilgrims and tourists from around the world and creating new economic opportunities for the region.
The leaders collectively expressed confidence that these budgetary provisions would accelerate Assam's integration into the national economic mainstream while solidifying its role as a gateway to Southeast Asia.
