Raipur: The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly witnessed the passage of the ‘Sankalp’ (Resolution) Budget 2026, with demands for grants exceeding ₹10,617 crore under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s portfolio. The budget emphasizes development across multiple sectors including energy, infrastructure, irrigation, digital governance, public welfare, and regional connectivity, setting a strong foundation for a self-reliant and progressive state.
CM Sai described the budget as a manifestation of the government’s ‘Sankalp’ (resolve) to accelerate economic growth, strengthen governance, and ensure inclusive development.
Sector-Wise Allocations: Key Departments
The budget presents substantial allocations to priority sectors under CM Sai’s leadership:
Department
Budget Allocation (₹ Crore)
General Administration
612.29
Other Expenditures (General Administration)
30.92
Water Resources
3,105.12
Mineral Resources
1,145.90
Aviation
315.00
Electronics & IT
417.00
Good Governance & Convergence
77.00
Public Relations
470.00
Energy
4,236.02
District Projects
208.50
The allocations underline the government’s priority on energy, water resources, and digital transformation, ensuring long-term benefits for citizens and industries alike.
Energy and Infrastructure: Driving Industrial Growth
CM Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that energy and water infrastructure remain the backbone of Chhattisgarh’s development strategy.
• The state’s total power generation capacity currently stands at 30,000 MW, with further investments planned to boost capacity.
• Water resources projects and irrigation schemes are expected to enhance agricultural productivity and industrial development, creating new employment opportunities.
This focus positions Chhattisgarh as a regional leader in energy and industrial growth while strengthening infrastructure at the grassroots level.
Governance and Transparency: The ‘Sankalp’ Approach
The 2026 budget is framed around good governance, transparency, and anti-corruption measures, according to CM Sai.
• Digital platforms such as e-Office and e-HRMS have been strengthened.
• Allocation of funds for schemes is now directly linked to beneficiaries, reducing leakages and improving efficiency.
• Implementation of biometric attendance and digital monitoring reflects a new work culture from Secretariat to field offices.
The government’s approach ensures accountability, faster service delivery, and improved citizen trust.
Development in Naxal-Affected Areas
A significant highlight of the budget is the transformation of Naxal-affected regions, aligning with the broader national development agenda under Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.
• 100% electrification of 158 villages under the “Niyad Nella Nar” scheme has been completed.
• The government’s anti-Naxal strategy now emphasizes development and connectivity over conflict, bringing improved infrastructure and public services to previously underserved areas.
Mineral Revenue: Strengthening the Economy
Chhattisgarh’s mineral resources continue to be a cornerstone of its economy:
• Mineral revenue is projected to reach ₹17,000 crore, enabling increased funding for local development projects.
• Transparent management of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds has facilitated thousands of infrastructure and welfare projects.
• Ecological balance is being maintained alongside industrial development, reflecting sustainable growth priorities.
Irrigation and Farmer Relief
The government has approved irrigation projects worth ₹11,107 crore over the past two years:
• Irrigation potential has been created over 25,000 hectares, with plans to extend coverage to another 160,000 hectares.
• Modern water management technologies are being employed to improve agricultural productivity and resource efficiency.
These measures aim to reduce financial strain on farmers and ensure equitable water distribution.
Digital and AI-Driven Administrative Transformation
Investment of ₹417 crore in IT and AI sectors underlines Chhattisgarh’s commitment to a digital revolution:
• Initiatives include AI-driven governance, digital platforms, and e-governance systems.
• Programs under the AI Mission aim to train youth in cutting-edge technologies, creating future-ready human capital.
• Digitalization enhances transparency, accountability, and public accessibility of government services.
Welfare for Citizens: Electricity, Subsidies, and Solar Power
The budget incorporates measures to ease the burden on citizens:
• BPL families receive free electricity.
• Subsidies and expansion of solar energy schemes provide relief to millions of households.
• Improved energy access is expected to raise living standards and reduce costs for common citizens.
Regional Connectivity and Aviation Expansion
To accelerate regional development, the government is expanding air services:
• Cities like Bilaspur, Jagdalpur, and Ambikapur are being connected to the air network.
• This expansion aims to boost trade, tourism, and private investment, particularly in remote areas.
A New Era of Development in Chhattisgarh
The ‘Sankalp’ Budget 2026 under CM Vishnu Deo Sai reflects a strategic vision for a developed, self-reliant Chhattisgarh.
• By prioritizing energy, infrastructure, irrigation, digital governance, and public welfare, the government is laying the foundation for sustained growth.
• The reforms and investments signal a commitment to transparency, citizen-centric governance, and equitable development.
• With these measures, Chhattisgarh is poised to accelerate its journey toward becoming a modern and prosperous state.
