The Union Minister of Finance
and Company Affairs, Shri Jaswant Singh has invited suggestions
and comments from experts and different groups as inputs in the
Budget process. In a letter written to over 150 experts in the
sectors of agriculture, small scale industries, consumer organizations,
science and technology, trade union leaders, economists, representatives
of financial institutions and industrialists, the Finance Minister
has said that written comments and views would be far more relevant
and useful than holding meetings which do not provide adequate
time or opportunity for individuals to express their views in
a focused and satisfactory manner.
The Minister also
stated that the government is moving towards opening up the Budget
making process and making it more transparent. The release of
consultations papers on direct and indirect taxes as well as the
mid year review are steps to encourage an informed public debate
on issues confronting the economy.
