Gangtok, February 28, 2025 – The Sikkim government has presented an interim budget of ₹3,566.29 crore for the upcoming financial year. This budget, introduced to ensure smooth governance until the full-fledged budget is passed, covers essential expenditures for administration, development projects, and welfare schemes.
Key Highlights of the Interim Budget
The interim budget mainly focuses on maintaining government operations and ongoing projects. It aims to provide financial stability while addressing immediate economic and social needs. Here are some key aspects:
- Total Budget Size – ₹3,566.29 crore allocated for government expenditures.
- Government Salaries and Pensions – A significant portion is reserved for paying salaries, pensions, and administrative costs.
- Infrastructure Development – Continued investments in roads, bridges, and public transport systems.
- Healthcare and Education – Ensuring the availability of funds for hospitals, schools, and higher education.
- Welfare Schemes – Allocation for social security programs, including assistance for farmers, unemployed youth, and women.
Why an Interim Budget?
The interim budget serves as a temporary financial plan before the full budget is presented. Since the state is heading towards elections, the government cannot introduce new policies or major projects. This budget will keep the administration running until a new government takes office.
Economic and Financial Outlook
Despite financial challenges, Sikkim’s economy has shown resilience. The government has emphasized sustainable development, tourism growth, and industrial expansion. The budget also highlights efforts to improve financial management and attract investment.
Some key economic indicators include:
- Revenue Collection – Efforts to boost tax revenue and reduce fiscal deficit.
- Tourism Growth – Continued promotion of Sikkim as a travel destination.
- Industrial Development – Focus on eco-friendly industries and small businesses.
Opposition’s Reaction
Opposition parties have criticized the budget, calling it a temporary measure without long-term vision. They argue that it lacks new initiatives for employment, business development, and infrastructure expansion. However, government officials maintain that this is only an interim arrangement, and a more detailed budget will be presented later.
What’s Next?
The interim budget will be in effect until the elections conclude and a new government presents a complete financial plan. Citizens are eager to see how future policies will address employment, economic growth, and overall development.
The ₹3,566.29 crore interim budget ensures that the government functions smoothly without financial disruptions. While it primarily focuses on existing programs, it sets the stage for a more detailed financial plan post-elections. As Sikkim moves forward, all eyes are on how the state’s leadership will shape its economic future.
