TBT DESK: Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed on Monday called the proposed Tk 790,000 crore national budget for 2025-26 somewhat "unusual," as it is the first time in the country's history that a new budget is smaller than the previous one.
"This year's budget is somewhat exceptional. For the first time in the country's history, we are proposing a smaller budget for the next fiscal year than the budget of FY2024-25," he said while presenting the budget in a televised speech.
Moving away from a growth-centric concept, Salehuddin said they have tried to emphasise the concept of holistic development.
"Therefore, instead of highlighting the traditional physical infrastructure development, we have given priority to the people in this year's budget," he said.
The adviser said without ensuring the essential elements of guarantee of fundamental rights, necessary measures for good living, security of livelihood and environment free from discrimination any state becomes ineffective, and the foundation of a society is weakened.
Considering this, he said in this year's budget, special emphasis has been laid on education, health, good governance, civic facilities, employment etc.
Besides, Salehuddin said realising the benefits of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, preparing for the post-LDC graduation period, mitigating the risks of climate change and ensuring sustainable development have been given appropriate priorities.
The Finance Adviser commenced the presentation of the Tk 790,000 crore national budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which begins in July.
This is the first time Salehuddin, a former central bank governor, has presented the national budget, as well as the first budget presented by the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus.