Raipur:
Chhattisgarh’s Finance Minister OP Choudhary presented the state budget for the financial year 2025-26 in the Legislative Assembly today. The ₹1,65,000 crore budget is themed ‘GATI’ (Good Governance, Accelerating Infrastructure, Technology, and Industrial Growth), reflecting the government’s vision for rapid progress.
A unique highlight of this budget is that it was handwritten by the Finance Minister himself—an unprecedented move in the state’s history. This symbolizes a return to tradition and an emphasis on originality, earning widespread appreciation.
Key Highlights of the Budget:
- Good Governance & Digital Innovation: ₹10 crore has been allocated for the Chief Minister’s Good Governance Fellowship Scheme to enhance administrative efficiency.
- Accelerating Infrastructure: ₹5 crore has been sanctioned for the survey of the Raipur-Durg Metro Rail Project, aiming to boost urban transportation.
- Technology & Communication Revolution: Under the Chief Minister’s Mobile Tower Scheme, efforts will be made to provide mobile connectivity in remote areas currently lacking telecom services.
- Industrial Growth: ₹46 crore has been earmarked under the Prime Minister’s Micro Food Industry Upgradation Scheme to promote food processing enterprises.
- Agriculture & Rural Development:
- ₹10,000 crore has been allocated for the Krishak Unnati Yojana, promoting agricultural growth.
- ₹8,500 crore has been designated for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) to boost rural housing.
This budget is seen as a landmark step toward accelerating Chhattisgarh’s overall development and improving the quality of life for its citizens. With its focus on governance, infrastructure, technology, and industry, it is expected to be a milestone in the state’s progress.
Dr. Salim Raj Chairman, Chhattisgarh Waqf Board
