Chhattisgarh rolls out Rs 1.72 lakh crore budget

The social sector accounts for 40 per cent of the total outlay, while 36 per cent has been earmarked for economic development and 24 per cent for administrative and general services. The minister said the budget is aligned with the state’s long-term vision document “Chhattisgarh Anjor 2047”.

The Chhattisgarh government on Tuesday presented a Rs 1.72 lakh crore budget for the financial year 2026-27, with a strong focus on inclusive growth, infrastructure expansion and investment promotion. Finance Minister O P Choudhary tabled the budget in the state assembly, outlining a development roadmap centred on the theme ‘SANKALP’.

A key highlight of the budget is the launch of the Rani Durgavati Scheme, under which girls will receive Rs 1.5 lakh upon attaining 18 years of age. The initiative aims to promote financial security and empowerment of young women across the state.

The social sector accounts for 40 per cent of the total outlay, while 36 per cent has been earmarked for economic development and 24 per cent for administrative and general services. The minister said the budget is aligned with the state’s long-term vision document “Chhattisgarh Anjor 2047”.

Marking 25 years of statehood, celebrated as “Atal Nirman Varsh”, Choudhary said the state’s budget has grown 35 times since its formation in 2000 — from Rs 4,944 crore to Rs 1.72 lakh crore.

Special emphasis has been placed on the development of Bastar and Surguja regions, which were once affected by Naxalism. Two Education Cities will be set up in Abujhmad and Jagargunda with an allocation of Rs 100 crore. Additionally, Rs 2,024 crore has been provided for constructing Matnar and Deurgaon barrages on the Indravati river.

The government has created 1,500 new posts for Bastar Fighters and allocated Rs 10 crore for Bastar and Surguja Olympics to promote sports and local talent. A 50 per cent exemption in registration fees for women purchasing immovable property has also been proposed.

Major departmental allocations include Rs 22,360 crore for education, Rs 16,560 crore for panchayat and rural development, Rs 9,450 crore for public works and Rs 3,500 crore for water resources.

To boost agriculture, Rs 10,000 crore has been earmarked under the Krishak Unnati Yojana. The Viksit Bharat G RAM G Yojana has been allocated Rs 4,000 crore to ensure 125 days of rural employment annually.

The budget also proposes 23 new industrial parks with Rs 250 crore, expansion of air services under the CG-VAYU scheme with Rs 30 crore, and Rs 33 crore for the CG ACE scheme to support competitive exam aspirants.

Overall, the budget seeks to translate policy intent into measurable outcomes, with a focus on grassroots implementation and balanced regional growth.