A budget for development of Viksit Chhattisgarh: Dy CM Arun Sao

HORNBILL TV

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao on Monday hailed the Chhattisgarh Budget 2025-26, stating that it has been prepared to accelerate development projects under the "double-engine" government.

Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], March 6 (HBTV): Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao on Monday hailed the Chhattisgarh Budget 2025-26, stating that it has been prepared to accelerate development projects under the "double-engine" government in the state.

Commenting on the state budget, Sao said, 'This budget is for the development of Viksit Chhattisgarh... It has been prepared to double the pace of development under the double-engine government.'

Meanwhile, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister and Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel criticized the budget, stating that it lacks provisions for farmers and unemployment relief. He also pointed out that there was no mention of the Rs 500 LPG cylinder promised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

'There is nothing new in this budget. There is no scheme for farmers, irrigation, unemployment, or inflation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi guaranteed to provide LPG cylinders for Rs 500; there was no mention of this. Therefore, there is nothing new in this budget,' Baghel said.

Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary presented the second budget of the government for the financial year 2025-26.

A major highlight of the budget is the allocation of INR 10,000 crore for the Krishak Unnati Yojana, aimed at boosting agricultural prosperity, alongside INR 8,500 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) to enhance rural housing.

Welfare schemes such as the Mahatari Vandan Yojana and Mukhyamantri Khadyann Sahayata Yojana have also received substantial funding of INR 5,500 crore and INR 4,500 crore, respectively, reinforcing the government's commitment to women's empowerment and food security.

Additionally, INR 3,500 crore has been set aside to provide free electricity for agricultural pumps of up to 5 HP, easing the financial burden on farmers.

Infrastructure development remains a key priority, with INR 2,000 crore allocated for new road construction under the Public Works Department (PWD), marking a first in the state's history. Rural connectivity will be improved with INR 845 crore sanctioned for village roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and INR 500 crore earmarked to connect Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) habitations through the PM-JANMAN Sadak Nirman Yojana. (ANI)