Chief Minister Hemant Soren accused the Centre of discrimination against Jharkhand, emphasizing the state's economic strengthening, farmer support, improvements in education and healthcare, and social justice. He launched a b attack on the BJP's policies.
Jharkhand News: In the Jharkhand Assembly on Thursday, Chief Minister Hemant Soren stated that his government would work bly in the coming five years. Mentioning the state's 25th anniversary, he said that even a child doesn't mature in 25 years; Jharkhand also needs time and proper guidance.
Allegation of Step-motherly Treatment towards Jharkhand
The Chief Minister accused the central government of discriminating against Jharkhand. He stated that Jharkhand has an outstanding amount of ₹1.36 lakh crore, but the central government is hesitant to release it. He sarcastically remarked that if this entire amount were received, Jharkhand would be in a position to lend money to other states.
Discrimination against Adivasis and Dalits
Hemant Soren stated that some people don't like it when Adivasis and Dalits become Chief Ministers or travel by air. He mentioned a news report about a Dalit youth being harassed simply for riding a bullet bike.
Outstanding Amounts in MNREGA and Clean Water Schemes
The Chief Minister explained that ₹1200 crore is outstanding under MNREGA, hindering timely payments to villagers. Simultaneously, ₹6000 crore is needed for clean water supply.
Attacking the BJP, Soren said that the opposition has weaponized religious faith for political gains. He stated that the BJP tried to portray the Kumbh Mela as an economic model, but it had no positive impact on the economy. He described the country's economic situation as being "in the ICU".
Concerns over Communal Tensions
The Chief Minister expressed concern over the rising communal incidents in the country. He said that earlier, tensions were seen during Muharram and Ram Navami, but now they are occurring during Holi and even cricket matches. He questioned the origin of such elements.
Development Schemes and Women's Empowerment
The Chief Minister mentioned state schemes, prominently the Mukhyamantri Mahila Yojana. Under this, approximately 58 lakh women have received honorarium. He said that the scheme's impact will be visible across the country in the coming time.
Pension and Social Security
The Chief Minister stated that his government has improved pension schemes. Now, no one will be found without a pension in the villages. The age limit for women's pensions has also been reduced to 50 years.
Questions on Bank Policies
He questioned the RBI's policies, stating that banks have found new ways to extort money. Charges are levied for ATM withdrawals, checking account balances, and maintaining minimum balances, disproportionately affecting the poor and youth.
New Initiatives for Farmers and Industries
He stated that the government will create a separate directorate to promote the MSME sector. Also, the loans of four lakh farmers up to ₹2 lakh have been waived. Fruit trees are being planted on 1.5 lakh acres in the state. ₹2257 crore has been sanctioned under the Mega Lift Irrigation project.
Improvements in Education and Tribal University
CM Schools of Excellence have been opened in the state, with tremendous enthusiasm among children for admission. The Chief Minister said that a Tribal University will soon be established, and new schools will be opened in Dumka, Chaibasa, and Bokaro on the lines of Netarhat.
Improvements in Healthcare Facilities
An air ambulance service has been started in the state, benefiting thousands. The government is now planning to build helipads in every hospital to provide quick medical facilities to patients. This step will make Jharkhand the first state in the country with helipads in all hospitals.
Commitment to Making the State Self-Reliant
The Chief Minister said that Jharkhand is now moving towards becoming self-reliant. By increasing revenue collection, a target of ₹60,000 crore has been set for this year.
Remarks on Inflation and PM Kisan Yojana
Mentioning inflation, he said that the prices of food items have doubled from 2014 to 2024. He sarcastically remarked on the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, stating that farmers are given only ₹6000 annually, which is ₹15-16 per day. He said, "You can't even buy poison for that much."
Criticism of Demonetization and Tax Policies
He stated that the country's economy collapsed after demonetization, and the tax burden has increased so much that the common people are distressed. He said that the country is being run not by logic, but by "magic".
