Punjab's Agrarian Crisis Overlooked in Union Budget, Analysts Decry Fiscal Neglect

In a critical assessment of the recent Union Budget, economic experts and agricultural organizations have highlighted a significant oversight regarding Punjab's deepening agrarian and financial distress. Prominent economist RS Ghuman has pointedly noted the absence of targeted provisions for the state, which is grappling with severe agricultural challenges and fiscal instability. This omission raises concerns about the alignment of national fiscal policy with regional economic realities, particularly in a state that plays a pivotal role in India's food security. The budget's failure to address Punjab's specific needs—such as debt relief, crop diversification incentives, and infrastructure investment—suggests a potential disconnect between central planning and ground-level crises. Analysts warn that neglecting Punjab's agricultural sector could have broader implications for national food production and rural economic stability. The critique underscores the necessity for more nuanced, region-sensitive budgetary allocations to effectively tackle localized economic emergencies while maintaining cohesive national growth objectives.