Gujarat’s Rs 4.08 lakh cr budget focuses on tourism, sports

Metro India News | GANDHINAGAR

Gujarat Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai on Wednesday presented a Rs 4.08 lakh crore Budget for 2026–27, laying strong emphasis on tourism, sports infrastructure, digital governance and balanced regional growth. The Budget projects a surplus of Rs 974 crore and proposes no new taxes, while continuing a 5 per cent rebate on motor vehicle tax for electric vehicles.

The total outlay has risen by Rs 37,803 crore, marking a 10.2 per cent increase over the previous year. A key highlight is the plan to develop Ahmedabad as an “Olympic Ready City” ahead of the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which Gujarat will host. An allocation of Rs 1,278 crore has been made for Games-related infrastructure, including international-level sports complexes, stadiums and improved urban transport connectivity. The sports department has been allotted Rs 1,331 crore overall, with Rs 500 crore set aside for the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave and Olympic preparations. Funds have also been earmarked for district sports complexes, a Para High Performance Centre, and a world-class hockey stadium.

Tourism received major attention, with 2026 declared ‘Gujarat Tourism Year’. The government allocated Rs 236 crore for enhancing facilities around the Statue of Unity and Rs 300 crore for the Ambaji Corridor Masterplan. Additional funds will support infrastructure at Somnath and Shivrajpur beach, iconic bus stations, and tourism promotion initiatives, including training 1,000 guides.

Urban development under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana will receive Rs 16,116 crore. Over Rs 850 crore has been allocated for artificial intelligence and digital governance, including a Unified Digital Stack and AI-based monitoring systems.

Education, health, agriculture and tribal welfare form major pillars of the Budget. Nearly 20 per cent of developmental expenditure is earmarked for education, sports, art and culture. The government will develop 926 new PM SHRI schools and set up the Namo Central Library. Tribal welfare has been allocated Rs 35,780 crore, with a five-year outlay of Rs 2 lakh crore for development initiatives.

Highlighting strong economic indicators, Desai said Gujarat’s per capita income is nearly Rs 3 lakh, unemployment stands at 1.2 per cent, and labour force participation is above the national average.