Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud has asserted that the just announced FY 2025–26 national budget is realistic and fully implementable, despite challenges in revenue collection due to structural constraints.
Speaking at a post-budget press conference organised by the Ministry of Finance at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Tuesday (June 3), Dr Wahiduddin said: “This budget is much more realistic than previous ones. Our demand is high, but due to structural reasons, we are not able to collect the necessary revenue.”
The press conference was held at 3:00pm and moderated by Finance Secretary Drs Md Khayeruzzaman Majumdar. The event was attended by Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin, other members of the Council of Advisers, senior ministry officials, the Chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
A budget focused on continuity and reform
Wahiduddin acknowledged that some have labelled the budget as "traditional," but defended its structure, highlighting increased allocations for social sectors like education and health.
“Many are calling the budget traditional. However, the allocation for education and health has been higher than before. The budget is an ongoing process,” he said.
He emphasised that most of the development projects included in the budget are carryovers from the previous government, with only 20–30 new initiatives introduced. He iterated that no project will be dropped midway through implementation.
“We are continuing necessary projects and discontinuing unnecessary ones. No project will be abandoned halfway,” he added.
Prioritising key infrastructure projects
When asked about infrastructure spending, Dr Wahiduddin outlined his priorities: “I do not want to take on mega projects. However, considering their strategic importance, three major projects – Khulna-Mongla Railway Line, Matarbari Deep Sea Port, and rural road bridges – are being given special attention.”
He noted that many rural bridges and roads are in a state of disrepair and require urgent investment to support local economies and connectivity.
On the issue of fiscal clean-up, he admitted: “It is very difficult to clean up the garbage left behind. But I am committed to doing so. I will also work on creating a portfolio of viable, focused projects.”