The release of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Budget for 2024-25 has garnered mixed responses from key figures in the region. While some applaud the decision to refrain from tax hikes and emphasize critical sectors, others express concerns about the budget's allocation, expressing worries about sustainable income sources and prioritization of essential services. Divergent opinions highlight the complexity of balancing development, fiscal responsibility, and meeting the diverse needs of the population.

“There has been no hike in taxes for Navi Mumbaikars, while ensuring allocation of reserve funds in the budget for crucial sectors like health, education, water supply, environment, communication, and public sanitation. Emphasizing timely completion of budgeted resolutions, this measure not only provides relief to common citizens but also opens the possibility of increased population in Navi Mumbai without additional burden in property and water taxes.

The government's initiation of innovative projects such as the Navi Mumbai Airport and Atal Setu is commendable, and the allocated budget for these projects is welcomed. These endeavours have the potential to enhance the city's overall infrastructure and benefit its residents. As the city progresses with innovative projects, it is vital to maintain focus on essential services like health, education, water, and transport facilities to ensure comprehensive development”, said Rajesh Prajapati, Founder President CREDAI MCHI Raigad & MD Prajapati Constructions Ltd.

“The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Budget for 2024-25 appears to be virtual and inflated, lacking emphasis on critical aspects such as women's welfare, care for the elderly, and the quality of education for school students. This budget is concerning as it seems to lack a sustainable source of income, potentially putting the municipality in a precarious financial situation. Notably, the budget allocates resources towards construction projects rather than prioritizing the education of school children. Moreover, the emphasis on contractor expenditures, at the cost of recruiting essential personnel, raises questions about the budget's priorities. This approach seems to disproportionately favour contractors, potentially diverting crores of rupees away from initiatives that could benefit the less privileged. It is crucial to reassess the budget's focus and ensure that it addresses the needs of the poor and vulnerable, rather than inadvertently supporting the wealthy”, said Ravindra Sawant

Spokesperson, Navi Mumbai Congress.

“Until now, our stance has consistently prioritized sparing Navi Mumbaikars from any additional tax burdens. We have maintained this stance throughout the Municipal Corporation's administrative regime. Consequently, we appreciate the introduction of a municipal budget that refrains from imposing tax hikes. However, it is imperative that the reserve funds allocated in the budget are judiciously utilized for critical sectors such as health, education, water supply, environment, communication, and public sanitation, along with dedicated public welfare schemes. Maintaining financial discipline is key to translating budget resolutions into tangible outcomes. By adhering to a prudent fiscal approach, we can ensure that the allocated resources serve the well-being and advancement of the community”, said Sandeep Naik, Navi Mumbai BJP District President.

“The budget proposal for the financial year 2024-25, totalling Rs. 4950 crores, reflects the aspiration for Bharat Desh Vikas, as envisioned by Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Accordingly, the Municipal Corporation has undertaken various initiatives for the welfare and benefit of the people. Noteworthy projects include the construction of the MBR at Morbe dam to ensure 24-hour water supply in Navi Mumbai city, road construction in industrial areas, flyovers in essential city locations, pollution prevention measures, initiatives for the self-employment of women and youth, and augmenting municipal income through a LIDAR survey, as proposed in the budget. Additionally, the establishment of a Shelter Centre for Senior Citizens, the enhancement of facilities at the Central Library Vishnudas Bhave, upgrading primary education quality, state-of-the-art solid waste management, and the introduction of CT scan and mammography facilities in public hospitals are commendable steps. Moreover, measures such as facilities for the disabled, the installation of CC cameras for city safety, and the creation of a Disaster Response Team under Disaster Management further underline the commitment to comprehensive development”, said Manda  Mhatre, MLA Belapur Assembly.