Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): After Global Investors Submit (GIS) held in Bhopal to boost industrial growth in the state, there is big expectation from state Budget to be presented by state finance minister (FM) Jagdish Devda on Wednesday.
A demand has been raised for VAT reduction on diesel as Special Economic Zone (SEZ) also figures in the wish list. Then, more budgetary allocation for urban development and strategic planning has been wished to transform Bhopal into a smart, sustainable and a globally competitive investment hub.
Underinvestment hindered infrastructure devpt
CREDAI president Manoj Meek: In 2024-25 budget, MP allocated 2.7% of its total expenditure to urban development, which is lower than the national average of 3.4% allocated by other states. This underinvestment has hindered infrastructure development and service delivery in urban areas. The redevelopment of industrial disaster-affected areas in the capital is still missing. We need SEZs, smart industrial hubs and water resource restoration projects.
Reduce VAT on diesel
Petrol Pump Dealers’ Association president Ajay Singh: In MP, VAT on diesel is 19% but in Haryana it is 11%. Competing with the other states, government should consider it as VAT plays important role in attracting investment. Diesel is main factor for industrial growth so if government wants to provide relief to industries in the state, it should reduce the VAT on diesel.”
Common man needs relief
Akhil Bharatiya Vypar Mahasangh general secretary Anupam Agrawal: Schools fee is very high in Madhya Pradesh. Government should make rules to restrict the private schools from charging very high fee. Similarly, essential commodities should be excluded from purview of VAT in state to offer relief to common man. Besides, VAT on petrol and diesel should be regulated reasonably. ”
Need for Business Development Board
Bhopal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) spokesman Ajay Devnani: Business Development Board should be constituted to promote industries. Special package should be given to tourism, infrastructure industries and for developing global city. There must be budgetary allocation for Electric Vehicle (EVs) and infrastructure.
Set up processing units
Bharatiya Kisan Sangh state president Kamal Anjana: Processing units should be set up under One District One Product to extend more benefit to state. Rs 2700 MSP for wheat and Rs 3200 MSP for paddy should be announced. Government should take initiative for One Nation One MSP. Government should ensure proper water and electricity for irrigation in agriculture sector.
