Team Herald

PANJIM: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Wednesday said Budget 2017-18 has been drafted considering the concerns of the people in the State. The State’s financial statement will be tabled on the Floor of the House on Friday.

Parrikar, who had less than ten days to prepare the Budget, assured that it would be ‘people friendly with minimum pinch (taxation) and maximum delivery’. He said, “I had very less time to draft the Budget, so many of things might not find place in it, but it will indicate some of the policy decisions.”Refusing to comment on the financial stability of the State, the Chief Minister said the Budget will spell out the State’s financial position. “Everything will be clear in the Budget. The figures are ready and have gone to printing.  Final touch is being given to the main speech,” he said assuring that social welfare schemes introduced in the last would continue.

“Mining has resumed in the State. We have received revenue this financial year too and will be highlighted in the Budget,” he stated.  Government is considering revenue from mining for the coming financial year through fresh production of 20 million tonnes and e-auction of stacked ore.

“Currently, this Budget will focus on people’s concern and State requirements,” he said indirectly hinting at development projects, revenue generation and employment creation aspects. Fiscal measures and modes of employment creation are expected to be the focus of the Budget.