Raipur: The Chhattisgarh Government Budget 2026‑27 marks a historic milestone for the state, with a massive expansion from ₹5,000 crore in its first budget to ₹1.72 lakh crore, a 35-fold increase over the years. The budget emphasizes regional development, education, healthcare, agriculture, and irrigation projects, particularly in the Bastar and Sarguja regions, highlighting the government’s commitment to balanced growth.
Educational Infrastructure Boost in Bastar and Sarguja
To strengthen education and skill development in tribal and underdeveloped regions, the budget allocates funds for the establishment of Education Cities:
- Abujhmad and Jagargunda Education Cities – ₹100 crore allocated, modeled on the successful Dantewada Education City project.
- Medical Colleges in Kunkuri, Manendragarh, and Dantewada – ₹50 crore provisioned to enhance medical education and healthcare services.
These initiatives aim to create quality education hubs, provide local employment, and improve access to professional courses in remote areas.
Employment-Oriented Agriculture & Agro-Forestry Projects
Recognizing the potential of the agricultural and forest-based economy, the government has earmarked ₹100 crore for employment-driven projects such as:
- Allied Agriculture Sector Development
- Agro-Forest Processing Units in Bastar and Sarguja
These measures are designed to boost rural livelihoods, promote sustainable farming, and create skill-based employment opportunities in tribal districts.
Major Irrigation Projects for Bastar and Sarguja
Water resource development remains a key focus of the 2026‑27 budget. Significant allocations have been made for irrigation projects to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure water security:
- Medhki Barrage, Kanker – ₹400 crore
- Mattimarka Diversion Project, Bijapur – ₹110 crore
- Mahadevghat Barrage, Bastar – ₹100 crore
- Pamshala Anikat Lift Irrigation, Jashpur – ₹60 crore
- Sargawa Barrage, Ambikapur – ₹20 crore
- Gauge Dam Upgradation, Baikunthpur – ₹10 crore
These projects aim to provide reliable irrigation facilities, prevent water scarcity, and support year-round farming in the region.
Regional Development Authorities: Bastar & Sarguja
To ensure coordinated urban and rural development, the budget allocates:
- ₹75 crore each for the Sarguja-Jashpur Development Authority and Bastar Development Authority.
This funding will support infrastructure projects, town planning, and community development initiatives, promoting inclusive regional growth.
Budget Impact and Vision for the Future
The Chhattisgarh 2026‑27 budget reflects the state government’s long-term vision for balanced regional development, with particular attention to tribal and backward areas like Bastar and Sarguja. Investments in education, healthcare, employment-driven agriculture, and irrigation infrastructure aim to uplift local communities, enhance living standards, and foster sustainable growth.
