Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed on Monday presented a national budget of Tk 7,90,000 crore for the fiscal year 2025–26, marking an unusual departure from precedent, as it is the first instance in the nation’s history where a proposed budget is smaller than its predecessor.
“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, reports UNB.
“Therefore, instead of highlighting the traditional physical infrastructural development, we have given priority to the people in this year’s budget,” he said.
The adviser said that without ensuring the essential elements of guarantee of fundamental rights, necessary measures for good living, security of livelihood and an environment free from discrimination, any state becomes ineffective, and the foundation of a society is weakened.
Considering this, he noted that 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.
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 Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.