Chandigarh, March 6: Governor Gulab Chand Kataria opened the Punjab Budget session today by affirming the government’s push for infrastructure and social security. In his inaugural speech, the Governor declared that the provision of free electricity has reached nearly 90 per cent of homes across the state, even as Opposition leaders exited the floor in protest.
The session serves as a critical juncture for the ruling party, which is preparing to showcase its welfare track record. Finance Minister Harpal Cheema is expected to deliver the 2026-27 budget on Sunday. This weekend presentation is intended to align with International Women’s Day, highlighting proposed financial support for female citizens.
Addressing the assembly, Governor Kataria asserted that the state’s progress in utility management has been substantial. Following the National Anthem, he also stated his preference for ‘Vande Mataram’ to be formally integrated into the legislative schedule.
The Opposition, led by the Congress party, declared that the state’s rising debt—now exceeding Rs 4 lakh crore—remains a secondary priority for the current administration. They maintained that the focus should be on fiscal responsibility and the prevailing security environment rather than ceremonial addresses.
Anticipation is building around the “Mahila Samman” allowance, a proposed Rs 1,000 monthly grant for women. Government representatives affirmed that this measure is a cornerstone of their welfare agenda. Despite the heated start to the session, officials maintained that the upcoming budget will focus on consolidation and relief without the imposition of new tax burdens.
