Pradip Amat attends Pre-Budget Consultation

Odisha Finance Minister Pradip Amat has attended Pre-Budget Consultation Meeting of Union Finance Minister, Arun Jetly at Hotel Ashoka, New Delhi, on Friday. In this meeting Minister Amat has raised some issues common to States and specific issues concerning Odisha.

Minister Pradip Amat emphasized on adequate compensation to Odisha on reduction of Central Sales Tax Rate from 4% to 2%.  Pradip Amat also demand for removal of the ceiling on Profession Tax, Taxing goods sold through e-commerce platform at the consumption point, suitable modification of the proposed amendment to the constitution for introduction of GST to address the genuine concerns of Odisha government.

He also raised the issues of compensation for the revenue sacrifice by the State Government for Paradeep Refinery through a suitable Fiscal Instrument, adequate provision for Central Plan Assistance in 2015-16 for critical infrastructure projects like AIBP, PMGSY etc.,  financial support for Nabakalebara 2015 and release of funds from NDRF for restoration work in Phailin and Hudhud affected areas.

Pradip Amat again put forth demands like implementation of the National Waterway-5 to link Paradeep and Dhamra ports with their hinterland, opening of brick & mortar bank branches in all un-banked GPs by 2019, concessional loan from Commercial Banks to fishermen, Dairy Farmers and weavers at par with agricultural activities, and reduction of the premium for crop insurance.

Additional Chief Secretary Finance R. Balakrishnan was present in the meeting.