Introduction of new taxes 'need of the hour': Badal

Speaking at a function in village Garcha near here, the chief minister, however, asserted that government has taken due care to ensure that there in no unwanted burden on common man due to these taxes.

Last month, the State Government imposed fresh taxes, including property tax to mop up Rs 900 crore.

Badal said with "limited financial resources", it was impossible for the government to carry on with the development initiatives, and thus, it needed "active cooperation" of the public for the same.

The money collected from these taxes will be duly utilised for upgrading the infrastructure in core areas like health and education, besides providing quality services to the people, he said, adding that the move will generate more income for ensuring the welfare of the people.

Badal also claimed his government's initiatives have brought Punjab in the league of top-performing states in health, education and infrastructure sectors.

On the issue of land acquisition, the chief minister said the state government will not acquire even an inch of land without the consent of the farmers.