Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has announced that the upcoming state budget 2026-27 will include provisions to provide financial recognition to Padma award-winning citizens. The initiative aims to offer economic security, enhance morale, and honor individuals who have contributed significantly in the fields of arts, sports, culture, and social service.
Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports, and Youth Affairs Minister Sudivya Kumar emphasized that the department is prioritizing human resources while making budgetary arrangements to ensure that national achievers from Jharkhand receive proper recognition and financial backing.
Prominent state Padma awardees include Dishom Guru Shibu Soren, cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Olympian archer Deepika Kumari, world-renowned mountaineer Premalata Agarwal, and tribal scholar Ramdayal Munda. The initiative will also benefit distinguished personalities such as Chhau dancer Shashadhar Acharya, social workers Chutni Mahto, Jamuna Tudu, and environmentalist Simon Uraon, highlighting Jharkhand’s contribution to national culture and sports.
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Athlete Pension Scheme to Be Expanded
The state government is also set to expand the pension scheme for athletes, particularly those who have won Olympic and national-level awards. This move aims to provide economic stability to sportspersons, allowing them to focus fully on training and performance without financial concerns. The initiative is expected to encourage young athletes to pursue excellence in sports and contribute to Jharkhand’s growing presence on the national stage.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Tourism Development
Tourism will remain a key focus of the 2026-27 budget, with special attention to eco-tourism initiatives. Jharkhand plans to enhance tourist facilities in nature-rich destinations like Dalma, Palamu Tiger Reserve, and Netarhat. Development will include nature-friendly infrastructure near waterfalls and wildlife areas, along with bamboo houses and eco-lodges. The Dalma region has already seen the introduction of eco-tourism facilities, which will gradually expand to other tourism hotspots across the state.
Boosting Economic and Cultural Recognition
Through this multi-faceted approach, the Jharkhand government under CM Hemant Soren aims to strengthen social, cultural, and sports ecosystems, while promoting sustainable tourism and creating new opportunities for local communities. The budget is expected to enhance the state’s reputation nationally, both as a hub of talent and a destination for eco-conscious travelers.
