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The governor informed the Presidential Envoy to the Volga Federal District about the region's socioeconomic development results. Over the past three years, Penza Oblast has seen significant growth in its gross regional product (GRP), reaching 732.1 billion rubles in 2024 - an increase of 192 billion rubles since 2021. The region ranks 20th in Russia for industrial production index, with local enterprises showing steady development.
"What particularly pleases me is the share of small and medium businesses in GRP - over 35%, the highest in the Volga Federal District," emphasized Oleg Melnichenko. The number of self-employed continues to grow significantly, with 76,500 people registered in Q1 2025. Investment growth remains strong, totaling 138.4 billion rubles in 2024 - a 40% increase over three years.
"Our export performance is good. This year's total exports should exceed 2024 levels thanks to active cooperation with Belarus and Uzbekistan," Melnichenko explained. The consolidated budget of Penza Oblast is being executed as forecasted, with growth in both tax and non-tax revenues. The region has improved its budget security ranking from 74th to 59th in Russia over three years. Penza Oblast has prepaid its commercial loans, saving 46 million rubles in interest payments in 2024 and 412 million in 2025. The region now has no commercial debt. State debt stands at 22 billion rubles, having decreased by 3 billion over three years. "We will continue reducing state debt. About 11 billion rubles are being written off," Melnichenko specified.
Igor Komarov showed interest in major investment projects, particularly in the Serdobsk Advanced Development Zone. "Are we managing to support them and bring them up to modern standards?" Komarov asked. Melnichenko reported that the Serdobsk zone has launched production of machine tool frames and bases, and has substantial orders for containerized gas stations and industrial parts washing equipment.
Agriculture remains a key economic driver. Over five years, more than 80,000 hectares have been returned to crop rotation. Penza Oblast leads the Volga Federal District in milk yield per cow. The discussion turned to a pilot program to increase birth rates in Serdobsky and Zemetchinsky districts. In 2024, comprehensive measures including over 100 initiatives helped increase births by 16.4% and 9.4% respectively. "The results are good, this can be replicated," Melnichenko noted.
On education, Komarov asked about remaining second shifts in schools. The governor reported that seven new schools have been built over the past two years to address this, with two more under construction. Komarov also supported the vocational education modernization project, with 13 facilities in district centers scheduled for renovation this year. The Presidential Envoy believes this will help slow rural depopulation and support vocational training