Pre-Budget Meet in Jaisalmer: Pre-Budget discussions key to National Policy: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Dec 20: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday participated in the pre-budget discussions in Jaisalmer with other state leaders led by the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss fiscal matters ahead of the 2025-26 national budget.
Chief Ministers, Finance Ministers, and senior officials from various states and Union Territories attended the meeting to discuss key priorities for the Union Budget 2025-26.
Addressing the meeting, Sitharaman said that funds allocated to states under the 15th Finance Commission (April 2021–December 2024) have exceeded allocations under the 14th Finance Commission (2015–2020). She attributed this to a healthy macroeconomic environment and efficient tax collection.
Sitharaman also announced an additional Rs. 30,000 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, which allows states to invest in vital infrastructure projects.
The Finance Minister thanked all dignitaries for their insights, assuring that their suggestions will be given due consideration while finalizing the Union Budget.
The Finance Minister also introduced new measures to aid states affected by severe natural disasters, offering up to 50% additional funds under the SASCI scheme for reconstruction efforts, alongside National Disaster Response and Mitigation Fund support.
The Finance Minister thanked all dignitaries for their insights, assuring that their suggestions will be given due consideration while finalizing the Union Budget.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters at Jodhpur before heading to Jaisalmer, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on importance of the pre-budget discussions said that such platforms provide states with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national policymaking.
“This is my first time in Jodhpur, and I’m traveling to Jaisalmer by car. I look forward to exploring this part of Rajasthan and hope to return for a holiday someday”, Omar said.
Replying a question on “One Nation, One Election” proposal, he said that discussions on the subject are ongoing, and no voting has been conducted yet as the idea is still under discussion and needs to be passed in both Parliament and many states.
Meanwhile, Omar will attend 55th GST Council meeting in Jaisalmer tomorrow which will be chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers, and Finance Ministers from various states, along with Finance Secretaries will be part of council meeting which will begin at 11 am tomorrow.