Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 25: Member of Parliament Capt Brijesh Chowta participated in the discussion on the Finance Bill in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, drawing the House's attention to key issues including fiscal discipline, tax reforms, national security, federal cooperation, and the welfare of ex-servicemen.
Chowta lauded the GST reforms under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating they have not only strengthened the nation's economy but also provided relief to ordinary families by reducing taxes on daily-use items. He also welcomed the simplified income tax framework, noting it would offer greater clarity and confidence to taxpayers.
National security and veterans' welfare
Viewing the budget through the lens of national security, Chowta emphasised that a robust economy is the foundation for the modernization of the armed forces. He welcomed the increased allocation for the defence sector and the push for indigenous defense production. On this occasion, he appealed to the finance minister to extend disability pension benefits to soldiers who, despite sustaining serious injuries during their service, continue to serve until retirement out of loyalty to their duty.
Cooperative federalism
Speaking on the cooperative federal system, Capt Chowta stressed that the timely implementation by state governments is crucial for central schemes to reach the common man. He expressed regret that in Karnataka, major projects like the Jal Jeevan Mission and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have faced delays and non-cooperation from the state government, leading to unutilized funds. This, he noted, has deprived poor families of drinking water and housing facilities.
Coastal protection and Konkan Railway
The MP raised serious concerns regarding the severe sea erosion in the Ullal and Someshwara areas of Dakshina Kannada, calling it a challenge to the very existence of the region rather than a temporary issue.
He urged the central government to formulate a scientific and comprehensive coastal protection plan in coordination with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Earth Sciences and asked for the release of special grants to protect fishermen's homes and public property.
Furthermore, he argued that to resolve structural issues and ensure full-scale development, the Konkan Railway must be immediately merged with the Indian Railways. He mentioned that the Railway Minister has responded positively to this requirement, which he termed essential to take the ambitious project from the George Fernandes era to the next level.
Infrastructure and Mangaluru’s growth
Emphasising the development of infrastructure and logistics in Dakshina Kannada, Chowta stated that improving road connectivity is vital for the New Mangalore Port to reach its full potential as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. He requested the acceleration of the Mangaluru-Bengaluru Expressway Corridor and the Mangaluru bypass works. While thanking the Railway Minister for approving the DPR for the Shiradi Ghat section of the Hassan-Mangaluru rail line, he urged for the work to commence speedily.
Additionally, he appealed to the finance minister to consider Mangaluru as a priority city for the government’s ‘City Economic Region’ scheme, asserting that it is the most suitable city for the project.