Rs 76.7 Crore Deficit In Mizoram Budget

The Mizoram budget for 1997-98 shows a deficit of Rs 76.79 crore, with total estimated expenditure of Rs 752.36 crore during the year.

Presenting the budget in the state assembly yesterday, state finance minister J Lalsangzuala said the colossal deficit had cast its shadow on the budget exercise.

Revenue receipts were placed at Rs 676.97 crore, while the revenue expenditure amounted to Rs 586.59 crore.

Anticipating a closing deficit of Rs 39.35 crore, the finance minister warned that the liability might increase consequent to the report of the Fifth Pay Commission.

Major projects to be taken up during the year include Lengpui Airport, for which Rs 31.35 crore were earlier allotted by the Centre.

The minister explained that although the plan outlay for the state had already been fixed by the Planning Commission, the sectoral allocations were yet to be finalised.

The finance minister sought a vote-on-account for the months between April and July 1997, amounting to Rs 260.72 crore. He also presented the supplementary demand for 1996-97, amounting to Rs 226.76 crore.