Budget a roadmap for MP's prosperity: CM; BJP says anti-poor

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Wednesday hailed the maiden budget of his government as "reflection of pathways to prosperity" of the state whereas the opposition BJP termed it "anti-poor" and "disappointing".

While presenting the Rs 2.33 lakh crore budget, the government has stayed away from imposing any new tax, allocated Rs 132 crore for setting up 1000 cow shelters and granted Rs 8,000 crore to waive loans of remaining farmers in the state.

"This is an anti-poor budget. No provision has been made for welfare schemes for the poor. The Congress has tried to fool farmers and youths," former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said in a statement.

He added that the previous BJP government's 'Deendayal Rasoi Yojana', which provides food for the urban poor, has been withdrawn by the incumbent dispensation.

Nath said, "In spite of the emptied exchequer in the last six months, well-thought out steps have been taken for faster development of the state. The budget 2019-20 reflects the pathways to prosperity of Madhya Pradesh".

He said the interests of farmers, youths, vulnerable classes, tribes, minorities and middle class have been taken care of in the budget.

"There have been well-contemplated provisions for urban areas as well besides a plan for rural development. In order to provide jobs to youths, new schemes have been designed. Arrangements have been made to meet basic needs like drinking water, education, health etc," the CM said.

Nath had Tuesday said the state government was considering to bring a law to ensure 70 per cent jobs to local youths in the private sector.