Punjab Deputy Speaker Rouri lays Estimates Committee report for approval of supplementary demands

During the ongoing session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Estimates Committee, Jai Krishan Singh Rouri, presented the committee’s report, recommending the approval of Supplementary Demands for various government departments.

Addressing the House, Deputy Speaker Rouri highlighted the necessity of these additional financial provisions beyond the initially sanctioned budget. He explained that while the Assembly allocates funds to different departments, unforeseen needs often arise, making it essential to provide supplementary resources for public welfare programs, judicial directives, and new government policies. He emphasized that these additional allocations are vital to ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted execution of key projects and initiatives.

Following a thorough review, the Estimates Committee recommended approving these Supplementary Demands to support the efficient implementation of government schemes. The additional funds will be directed toward crucial sectors. In agriculture and farmer welfare, subsidies will be provided for machinery under the Crop Residue Management Scheme and the School Scheme, along with financial aid for sugarcane farmers. Infrastructure development will also see significant support, with allocations for the repair and modernization of 127 rural roads across 21 districts, the renovation of warehouses, and the strengthening of Verka dairies' infrastructure.

The health and public welfare sectors will benefit from funding for essential medicine procurement for ESI hospitals and dispensaries. Additionally, law enforcement will be strengthened with upgrades in the State Police Department to enhance security and public safety. Environmental concerns have also been addressed, with funds allocated for wastewater treatment improvements in Ludhiana’s dyeing industry.

Urban development projects under the Smart City initiatives and the AMRUT Mission will receive financial support, while the irrigation and water resources sector will benefit from canal renovation and repair. Moreover, the establishment of sugar complexes has been included in the supplementary allocations to bolster both the industrial and agricultural sectors.