‘No False Promises: Cong govt sticks to realistic Fiscal Planning’

The Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has emphasized the government's commitment to realistic budgeting and economic stability. He pointed out that while the budget could have been inflated to Rs. 4,18,000 crore, the Congress-led government chose to present a practical budget of Rs. 3,04,965 crore, ensuring that expenditure aligns with actual revenue. 

Replying to the debate on the state budget in proceedings that lasted more than 10 hours on Friday, Bhatti criticized the previous BRS administration for artificially increasing the budget without sufficient income, leading to fiscal imbalances and excessive debt.

Bhatti stated that under the new administration, Telangana’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) growth has risen to 12.3%, compared to 8.4% under the previous government. This increase reflects the state’s improving economic health and effective governance. He also pointed out that while the BRS government spent Rs. 13,80,000 crore over a decade, it incurred Rs. 1,40,000 crore in debt and left Rs. 40,000 crore in unpaid bills. Despite such massive spending, there was little visible infrastructure development, such as major projects like Nagarjuna Sagar.

Since taking office, the Congress government has spent Rs. 2,80,603 crore, including Rs. 77,362 crore on salaries, Rs. 88,009 crore on loan repayments, and Rs. 1,34,000 crore on welfare schemes. Revenue collection has matched expectations, reaching Rs. 2,80,603 crore, while overall expenditure stands at Rs. 2,99,421 crore, reflecting responsible financial management, he stated.

Bhatti criticized the previous administration for failing to construct even one lakh houses in ten years while making unrealistic promises about housing schemes. In contrast, the current government has allocated Rs. 6,000 crore for the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam program to support unemployed youth. Additional welfare measures include an extra Rs. 50 crore for the Brahmin Parishad, Rs. 25 crore for a newly established Vaishya Corporation, and a firm commitment to implementing the SC/ST sub-plan.