Anticipating Financial Budget 2024: Hopes for New Guarantees in Pre-Parliament Elections Period

The imminent release of the Financial Budget 2024 during the Pre-Parliament Election 2024 Period has captured the attention of the masses. Various sections of society are optimistic about the potential announcement of novel guarantees in the budget, generating high expectations. In a democratic setup, voter priorities play a crucial role, aligning with the evolving needs of the time.

Among the pressing concerns is the accessibility of government services for senior citizens, particularly those above 85 years old. Recognizing the challenges they face in visiting Passport Offices, a proposal is made to grant relaxation by allowing a team from the Passport Office to visit applicants' homes for passport processing, with the option of imposing additional fees for this service.

Furthermore, there is a suggestion to empower the social wing of the Government of India to assemble a team of competent authorities. This team would scrutinize senior citizens above 85 years old, based on their Aadhar Card information, and reward them under a Monthly Pension Scheme, guaranteeing a minimum pension of Rs 2500 per month. This initiative aims to provide financial security to elderly citizens who may not benefit from existing schemes. The special team would also be responsible for delivering cash to senior citizens at their residences, considering the challenges they face when visiting banks due to their age.

Senior citizens are hopeful for proposed concessions in rail fares while traveling to religious places, extending to various classes and train categories. Additionally, there is a call to boost both small-scale and large-scale industries by developing special Industrial Focal Points, contributing to the growth of Make in India products.

Acknowledging the focus on agriculture, there is a plea to guide and educate farmers towards crop diversification, including fruits, pulses, and other crops. This could be achieved through the assistance of competent professionals from Agriculture Universities and graduates who have completed their agricultural studies.

Recognizing the youth as a valuable asset for the nation, there is a proposal to empower them with skill development initiatives after completing their studies. This would enable them to become self-reliant and support their families, reducing the reliance on going abroad for further studies at a significant cost.

In the political landscape, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a series of guarantees. However, it is emphasized that the opposition must present more authentic guarantees to appeal to the educated Indian voters, who play a vital role in shaping the nation's destiny through their votes.

Authored by:
Rajat Kumar Mohindru,
Journalist,
Jalandhar City.