Mumbai: Even as Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis termed the Union Budget for 2019-20 as ‘visionary’, his government's coalition partner, the Shiv Sena hailed it, but called for a reduction of import duty on gold. Stating that the Budget underlines and expands the concept of new India put forward by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Fadnavis said the budget had presented a necessary roadmap to achieve and resolve to make India a $5 trillion economy by 2025. Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande called the Budget “all-inclusive and balanced”. However, Kayande called for a reduction in the proposed increase of import duty on gold and precious metals from the current 10 to 12.5 per cent, “as gold has emotional value attached to it in our country.
It gives priority to the rural economy... Plus, a woman minister presented the Budget which was a proud moment,” Kayande said, also praising the provisions for education and railways. "This is a visionary budget which will steer India with even greater speed towards 5 trillion dollar economy! The very fact Modi ji's Govt could add a trillion dollar in just 5years makes it more achievable!" Fadnavis tweeted. "Banking reforms continue! Rs 4 lakh crore NPAs realised and with new provisions to help NBFCs, more liquidity will be available for businesses," the CM further noted. “The decision to invest Rs100 lakh crore for infrastructure is revolutionary in nature. Two crore houses would be built in next two years in rural areas. Moreover, building 1.25lakh km worth rural roads, scheme for women’s self-help groups (SHG) and schemes prepared for doubling the income of farmers have been provided with allocation in a big way.
It would bring to reality the dream of rural development and would also benefit development of industries especially in sectors like fisheries and small industries because of concessions for these sectors,” according to a statement issued by CM Fadnavis. “While investment in higher and technical education has been tripled, commendable efforts would be made in making India a global learning centre through the 'Learn in India' programme,” the CM added. Power Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule welcomed the Union government's resolve to provide power to every household in the country by 2022.
“The target of 10 percent increase in solar power is a welcome decision, as this will encourage solar power generation in the country,” Bawankule said. State Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar has said that the Budget 'respects' the poor, farmers and women. “The budget has given relief to middle class on the income tax front. It has resolved to double the income of farmers till 2022. It has also announced new industrial corridors and this will boost employment,”
