finance
The Union Budget 2024–25 outlines significant financial allocations and strategic plans aimed at promoting citizen empowerment, especially among marginalized groups. This year, a budget of ₹1.2 lakh crore has been set aside for the Har Ghar, Nal Se Jal Scheme, which seeks to provide tap water to around 3.8 crore households.
Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the government's commitment to uplifting the poor and marginalized communities since 2014. As of now, approximately 8.7 crore households have gained access to water through the Har Ghar, Nal Se Jal Scheme, with 5.5 crore of these households receiving tap water in the past two years alone.
In tandem with water accessibility initiatives, an allocation of ₹5.36 lakh crore has been announced for the completion of 3 crore houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana by 2029. This initiative targets eligible beneficiaries in both rural and urban areas. The Central Government plans to work closely with state governments to expedite land and construction approvals, thus facilitating affordable housing for the middle class and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in urban settings. To further support this effort, the government will engage with financial sector regulators to improve capital accessibility and reduce intermediary costs.
The newly introduced Vibrant Villages Programme focuses on developing border villages that face population sparsity and infrastructure challenges. The programme aims to:
Notably, 30% of border villages currently lack all-weather roads. Collaboration with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) will be fostered to establish border surveillance infrastructure.
The Finance Minister reiterated that additional funding will be designated for these initiatives, with existing schemes being integrated to consistently define and monitor their outcomes.
The Aspirational Districts Programme for 2024-25 will pivot to focus on blocks that have underperformed in key developmental indices. This initiative will see 50,000 block officials trained in data-driven governance and aims to leverage Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for upgrading schools in 120 blocks.
This all-encompassing approach highlights the government’s dedication to improving the quality of life for citizens in underdeveloped areas, with a targeted strategy for blocks that require immediate attention.