Tripura Finance Minister advocates for increased special assistance funds and development initiatives in pre-budget talks

During a crucial meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Tripura’s Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy pressed for 23 demands aimed at bolstering the state’s development agenda. Among these, he emphasized the need for augmenting the Special Assistance for Capital Expenditure fund and proposed a special package for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). Speaking exclusively to India Today NE, Minister Singha Roy highlighted the significance of the discussions, which encompassed two phases focusing on pre-budget allocations and GST implications.

“We presented 23 demands covering a spectrum of issues during our meetings with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. These included enhancing the fund for Special Assistance for Capital Expenditure, crucial for our state’s infrastructure development,” explained Singha Roy. He expressed concern over reduced allocations in the interim budget and stressed the necessity of adequate funding to sustain capital projects effectively.

“We also advocated for increased funding for externally aided projects, considering the limitations imposed by current funding ceilings. This is vital as numerous projects under international aid have been pivotal for our state’s progress,” added the Finance Minister.