Pre-Budget Seminar: CM Soren Calls for Public-Centric Budget

Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren chaired a pre-budget seminar on Tuesday at the state secretariat to prepare the Abua Budget 2025-26. Emphasizing the need for an inclusive and long-term budget document, the CM said that the upcoming budget would focus on addressing fundamental issues and driving holistic development in the state. Public participation and expert recommendations will play a key role in its formulation.

To ensure transparency and public involvement, the government launched the Abua Budget Portal, inviting suggestions from citizens. The best ideas submitted through the portal were recognized and awarded during the seminar.

Focus on Public Participation and Transparency

CM Hemant Soren said, “Making Jharkhand self-reliant is our top priority. The state needs to optimize its resources and enhance revenue generation. All departments must take concrete steps to identify revenue collection opportunities. This budget will address key issues and guide Jharkhand towards sustainable development.”

The CM also pointed out that 70% of Jharkhand’s population lacks personal budget planning, which leaves them economically disadvantaged. The government’s policies and schemes aim to empower these sections of society by providing them with necessary resources.

Best Suggestions Awarded

The top three contributors to the Abua Budget Portal—Anish Kumar Murarka, Nitish Kumar, and Ram Pravesh Ram—were honored for their innovative suggestions. Certificates of appreciation were also given to other contributors with noteworthy ideas.

Incorporating Expert Recommendations

Experts from various fields were invited to present their recommendations for the budget. These included suggestions on education, agriculture, public finance, and development economics. Notable experts like Vinoba Gautam (former education specialist at UNICEF), Prof. S Chandrashekhar (Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research), and Dr. Nidhi Agarwal (IIM Udaipur) shared their insights during the seminar.

Focus on Long-Term Planning

The CM emphasized the need for long-term planning to ensure sustainable development. He said, “Strong foundations are essential for future growth. If the base is robust, implementing larger and more ambitious plans becomes easier. That’s why the government is prioritizing initiatives that strengthen the groundwork.”

Key Officials and Experts Attend the Seminar

The seminar was attended by key officials, including Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore, Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, Additional Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Principal Secretary Mastram Meena, and members of the State Finance Commission, along with other secretaries and experts from across the country.

Abua Budget: A Collaborative Approach

The Abua Budget Portal initiative marks a significant step toward democratizing the budget-making process in Jharkhand. The CM assured that the suggestions and recommendations from both the public and experts will be integrated into the budget to strengthen the state’s economy and foster self-reliance.