The Chhattisgarh government on Monday unveiled a substantial Rs 1.65 lakh crore state budget for the financial year 2025-26, with a special emphasis on transforming the Naxal-affected Bastar region. Finance Minister O P Choudhary presented the budget, highlighting significant investments aimed at enhancing security, boosting tourism, and developing essential infrastructure.
Strengthening Security: New Special Forces and Expansion of 'Bastar Fighters'
In its aggressive push to eradicate Naxalism from Bastar, the state plans to establish a Special Operations Group (SOG), mirroring the Centre's elite National Security Guard (NSG), dedicated to anti-Naxal operations. Additionally, a State Industrial Security Force (SISF)—similar to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)—will be formed to protect Chhattisgarh's mineral resources.The budget notably includes creating 3,200 additional posts for the specialized anti-Naxal police unit, 'Bastar Fighters'. Recognizing their significant contribution to restoring peace, the government also announced new police stations in severely impacted villages such as Elmagunda and Dabbakonta.
Over the past 15 months, since Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai assumed office, security forces have significantly weakened Naxal operations, resulting in the elimination of 305 extremists and the surrender of over 1,000 others.
Major Investment in Infrastructure and Tourism
Chhattisgarh's infrastructure sees a substantial boost, with Rs 26,341 crore allocated for capital expenditure—an 18% increase from the previous year. This increase aims to develop roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals statewide, improving the quality of life for citizens.For Bastar specifically, the government earmarked Rs 221 crore for infrastructure projects in tribal areas, along with Rs 300 crore under the PM Janman scheme for housing. Additionally, Rs 30 crore has been allocated for school education and Rs 12 crore for tribal welfare initiatives.
Tourism is set to flourish with significant budget allocations, including Rs 10 crore for biodiversity tourism zones. Adventure tourism will be further enhanced through a dedicated tourism circuit in Jashpur district. The new Homestay Policy, launched specifically for Bastar and Sarguja regions, aims to offer visitors an immersive cultural experience by staying in villages and sampling traditional cuisine.
Promoting Tribal Culture and Tradition
Celebrating Bastar's rich cultural heritage, the government allocated Rs 5 crore for the annual Bastar Olympics, highlighting tribal sports and traditions. Further, Rs 2 crore is dedicated to Bastar Madai and the Bastar Marathon events, emphasizing the region's distinct cultural identity. Yoga camps will also receive a Rs 2 crore budget to encourage holistic wellness.Digital and Urban Infrastructure Enhancement
To promote digital accessibility, UPI payment systems will be introduced at rural panchayat levels, ensuring financial inclusion across the state. A pension fund will be established to provide long-term financial security for state employees, accompanied by a three per cent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA).Under the CM Urban Development Scheme, a significant Rs 2,000 crore has been earmarked for new road projects, alongside an additional Rs 500 crore allocated for improving urban infrastructure. Relief for citizens and businesses comes in the form of reduced petrol prices, slashed by Rs 1 per litre through reduced VAT.
'Niyad Nellanar' Initiative and Vision 2047 Mission
The "Niyad Nellanar" (My Beautiful Village) initiative received Rs 25 crore to ensure effective delivery of government schemes at the grassroots level. Additionally, the ambitious 'Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047' initiative was announced, comprising 10 major missions targeting healthcare, tourism, agriculture, education, IT, and infrastructure, to position Chhattisgarh as a developed state by 2047.Robust Financial Growth Anticipated
Chhattisgarh's projected revenue for the upcoming fiscal year stands at Rs 1.41 lakh crore, representing an impressive 11% growth without introducing new taxes. The state anticipates Rs 2,804 crore additional revenue, primarily driven by taxes and central government allocations. Furthermore, the state's GDP growth rate is projected at 7.51%, surpassing the national average of 6.5%.Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described this budget as foundational for Chhattisgarh's long-term development, particularly emphasizing the transformation of Bastar into a model of peace and prosperity.
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