Pondy CM presents Rs 2686 crore tax-free budget for 2006-07

Pondicherry,July 31 (UNI) Pondicherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy today presented a Rs 2686 crore tax free budget for 2006-07.

Presenting the budget, the chief minister said all efforts will be made to ensure that the union territory excels in all spheres of activities enabling all sections of the society to live with pride and prosperity.

Announcing that thrust would be given to tourism development here, Mr Rangasamy said the plan allocation for tourism sector was enhanced from last year's allocation of Rs.14.58 crore to Rs 23.58 crore in the current financial year.

Mr.Rangasamy also announced the setting up of an infrastructure development agency here to focus on the implementation of infrastructure development projects in the union territory and also the setting up of 'Karaikal development agency' with adequate financial power to speed up implementation of developmental works in Karaikal region in a coordinated manner.

Setting up of one university under state plan,a new scheme to provide unemployment dole to educated unemployed youth, provision of free colour television sets to the BPL families, setting up of a special computer training centre for the blind and removal of income ceiling for financial assistance for mentally challenged children were the highlights of the budget.

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