Raipur: In the Chhattisgarh Government Budget 2026‑27, presented by Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary, the state has made substantial financial commitments to uplift women, mothers, and children through targeted welfare schemes and new initiatives. The annual budget, with a total outlay of around ₹1.72 lakh crore, emphasizes inclusive growth, economic empowerment, and social security across the state.
Record Allocation for Mahatari Vandan Scheme
The budget has allocated a massive ₹8,200 crore for the Mahatari Vandan Scheme in 2026‑27, marking a significant increase compared with previous years. This flagship scheme aims to provide direct financial assistance to mothers across Chhattisgarh, strengthening their economic independence and supporting household welfare. Officials note that the sharp rise in budget reflects the government’s prioritization of maternal welfare within its social policy framework.
Support for Anganwadi Services and Nutrition Programs
To enhance early childhood care and nutrition, the government has earmarked ₹800 crore for the effective functioning of Anganwadi centres across the state. This includes:
- ₹650 crore for Supplementary Nutrition Programs, ensuring better food support for young children and pregnant or lactating mothers.
- ₹235 crore for Malnutrition Eradication Schemes, focusing on combating under‑nutrition among vulnerable children.
In addition, ₹42 crore has been set aside for constructing new Anganwadi centres — 250 in urban areas and 500 in rural zones — through an accelerated convergence framework.
Mahatari Sadan Network Expansion
The budget also provides ₹75 crore for the construction of 250 Mahatari Sadans (community resource centres) across the state. These centres are envisioned as safe and supportive spaces where women can access training, participate in self‑help groups, and build social and economic networks that strengthen community resilience.
Provisions for Central and State Women’s Schemes
Chhattisgarh’s budgetary plan ensures continuity and expansion of existing welfare programs, including:
- ₹120 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Matru‑Vandan Yojana, offering maternity benefits to eligible women.
- ₹80 crore for Mission Vatsalya, aimed at ensuring child protection and welfare services.
These provisions reinforce the state’s commitment to maintaining crucial safety nets for families and children.
New Initiative: Rani Durgavati Scheme for Girls
A headline announcement in the 2026‑27 budget is the launch of the Rani Durgavati Scheme, a new initiative designed to provide long‑term financial security for girls. Under this scheme:
- Girls born in the state will receive ₹1.5 lakh upon turning 18 years of age.
- An initial provision of ₹15 crore has been allocated to kickstart this programme.
The scheme aims to promote gender equality, encourage education, and support the economic empowerment of young women as they transition into adulthood.
Budget Impact and Social Goals
Overall, these provisions reflect Chhattisgarh’s ongoing emphasis on women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social infrastructure within its larger strategy of inclusive economic development. By investing heavily in maternal support schemes, early childhood nutrition, and new programmes for girls, the state government intends to foster a more equitable and prosperous future for all residents.
