Gujarat Budget Session to Unveil Fiscal Plans Amidst COVID Assurance

Ahmedabad : As Gujarat gears up for its state budget session scheduled to commence on February 1st, the anticipation mounts for the unveiling of the fiscal roadmap by Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai on February 2nd, 2024. Rushikesh Patel, the Health Minister and government spokesperson, confirmed the upcoming 29-day budget session, outlining the agenda and assuring the public about the COVID scenario.

Addressing the media, Patel reassured the populace that the COVID situation in Gujarat remains non-alarming, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and slight adjustments in precautionary measures. He pledged that the state government would soon issue an advisory to guide the public in navigating this phase.

Patel outlined the session’s itinerary, detailing that on the opening day, the governor would address the house, followed by condolence resolutions. The subsequent days will witness the budget presentation, with the remaining 22 working days dedicated to introducing and passing bills, discussing and approving budget proposals. Emphatically, he stated that this session would witness the comprehensive presentation of the budget, ruling out any notion of a vote on account.

“Our budget session aims for comprehensive deliberation on fiscal strategies while assuring the public that our COVID stance is managed. We’re striving to strike a balance between economic progress and public health safety.”

Providing an update on COVID statistics, Patel disclosed 34 active cases in the state, underlining that the situation remains largely under control. Most cases have been linked to individuals with travel histories, either abroad or within South India. He further assured the public against panic, highlighting plans for genomic testing for the initial 1000 cases.

In addition to the COVID narrative, the minister hinted at an upcoming detailed advisory regarding the relaxation of prohibition policies in the GIFT city. Furthermore, considering selective tourist destinations like Saputara and others, the state government is contemplating similar relaxations in its prohibition policy.