Pune: MP Murlidhar Mohol lauded the Union Budget 2024 presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and stated that the budget includes ₹819 crores for the Pune Metro project, which will expedite its expansion, and ₹690 crores for the Mula-Mutha River rejuvenation to combat pollution.
The NDA government's budget presented on July 23 garnered various political reactions. Minister Mohol emphasized that since 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has focused on Pune, resulting in substantial annual budgetary provisions for the city.
Mohol said, "With Pune emerging as a hub for MSMEs and startups, the budget's provisions for these sectors will benefit local youth. The establishment of 1,000 industrial training institutes nationwide will also create a skilled workforce advantageous to Pune."
"As an educational hub, Pune will benefit from the budget's student loan and internship provisions. Additionally, funding has been allocated for the Film Institute, IITM, Naturopathy Institute, and Aadhar Institute.
Significantly, special funds for cities with populations exceeding 3 million, including Pune, have been earmarked. Mohol also highlighted the inclusion of key railway routes such as Pune-Miraj, Pune-Daund, Pune-Nagar, and Pune-Nashik in the railway budget," Mohol stated.
Vikas Bajaj, President of Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI), said, "The budget out a comprehensive roadmap for 'Viksit Bharat' across key sectors including manufacturing and services.
The emphasis on promoting MSMEs through enhanced credit support and infrastructure development is particularly commendable. These measures will not only bolster job creation but also enhance competitiveness, paving the way for a robust industrial growth trajectory.
For the manufacturing sector, the proposed incentives for additional employment will significantly boost job creation and strengthen the manufacturing ecosystem.
The special attention given to MSMEs, particularly labour-intensive manufacturing, through financing, regulatory changes, and technology support, is a crucial step toward enhancing global competitiveness."