Raipur: In a landmark decision, the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly passed a supplementary budget of ₹35,000 crore on Tuesday, the largest in the state’s history. The budget prioritizes farmer welfare, regional connectivity, and infrastructure development, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and long-term economic stability.
Boosting Key Institutions and Industrial Development
Finance Minister O.P. Chaudhary explained that over ₹45,000 crore in pending dues from previous administrations had stalled operations of several boards and corporations. The supplementary budget provides support to critical institutions such as Markfed and Naan, central to paddy procurement and the public distribution system.
Additionally, ₹360 crore has been allocated to promote industrial growth, attract investment, generate jobs, and expand production capacities, aligning with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s development vision.
Read also: Chhattisgarh Records 87 Lakh Tonnes Paddy Procurement Under MSP, ₹7,771 Crore Paid to Farmers
Focus on Infrastructure and Capital Expenditure
The budget emphasizes long-term capital expenditure in roads, bridges, irrigation, electricity, education, health, and digital connectivity. Since the state’s formation, capital expenditure has increased 55-fold, from ₹13,320 crore in 2022–23 to ₹20,055 crore in 2024–25. The main 2025–26 budget allocates ₹26,341 crore, supplemented by an additional ₹2,000 crore.
Priority projects include:
- ₹175 crore for the Rural Road Program (RRP Phase-2)
- ₹150 crore for State Road Sector Project (ADB Loan-3)
- ₹86 crore for the Chirmiri–Nagpur Halt railway line project
These investments are designed to strengthen connectivity and support regional development.
Strengthening Agriculture and Farmer Welfare
Agriculture remains a central focus of the supplementary budget:
- ₹2,000 crore for agriculture advancement schemes
- ₹1,700 crore for free electricity for 5 HP pumps
- ₹187 crore for interest-free loans
- ₹122 crore for the PM Crop Insurance Scheme
- ₹35 crore for PM Agricultural Irrigation Scheme
- ₹4 crore for a Biotech Incubation Center to drive agricultural innovation
To enhance food security and address previous pending dues, ₹19,224 crore has been allocated, including ₹6,800 crore for the Chief Minister Food Assistance Scheme and ₹12,424 crore to compensate Markfed for paddy procurement losses. These measures ensure timely support for farmers and the stability of the public distribution system.
Social Welfare, Road Safety, and Environmental Initiatives
Key allocations for road safety, emergency response, and environmental protection include:
- ₹154 crore for fire engines and firefighting equipment
- ₹75 crore for ANPR camera systems
- ₹12 crore for an automated driving test track
- ₹35 crore for EV subsidies
For women and child development, provisions include:
- ₹2,500 crore for the Mahtari Vandan Scheme
- ₹225 crore for Saksham Anganwadi & Nutrition 2.0
Rural development initiatives include ₹1,000 crore for housing, ₹378 crore for PM Gram Sadak Yojana, ₹150 crore for Swachh Bharat Mission, and ₹286 crore for the National Rural Livelihood Mission.
Air connectivity will also be improved, with ₹150 crore for Bilaspur Airport and ₹30 crore for Raigarh Airport. The government emphasized a multi-pronged strategy to eliminate left-wing extremism, while promoting trust and development through cultural and sports activities in Bastar.
