Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jul 23: The seventh budget presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has stirred contrasting responses from political figures in Udupi district.

Lakshmi Hebbalkar, Udupi district's in-charge minister and Minister for Women and Child Welfare, criticised the budget, labelling it 'biased' and accusing the central government of favouring certain states over others.

She lamented, "The budget has disappointed Karnataka's expectations, neglecting pending projects and failing to address unemployment adequately." Hebbalkar also expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of initiatives like the Kisan Credit Card scheme.

In contrast, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna praised the budget for its transformative potential under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. "The budget injects new vigor into India's economy with substantial allocations for women's empowerment, education, employment, and skill development," Suvarna emphasised.

He highlighted key initiatives such as the National Cooperative Policy and increases in income tax limits, agricultural support, and rural development programs like Gram Sadak Yojana.

Echoing these sentiments, Gurme Suresh Shetty, MLA from Kaup, described the budget as positive, especially for its provisions benefiting agriculture, education, and women.

The diverse viewpoints reflect the political spectrum's analysis of Budget 2024 and its potential impact on India's developmental trajectory.