Chhattisgarh budget 2026-27: Financial scheme for girls among key announcements

Chhattisgarh Finance Minister OP Choudhary

• Chhattisgarh presents Rs 1.72 lakh crore budget for 2026–27
• Girls to get Rs 1.5 lakh at 18 under Rani Durgavati Scheme
• Rs 2,024 crore set for barrages in Bastar, focus on infra boost

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Chhattisgarh Finance Minister OP Choudhary on Tuesday presented a Rs 1.72 lakh crore budget for 2026–27 in the Legislative Assembly, describing it as a roadmap for inclusive growth, faster infrastructure development and increased investment.

Among the key announcements was the Rani Durgavati Scheme, under which girls will receive Rs 1.5 lakh upon turning 18. The budget also earmarks Rs 2,024 crore for the construction of the Matnar and Deurgaon barrages on the Indravati river in Bastar, a region that was once affected by Naxal activity.

In terms of sectoral allocations, the government has set aside Rs 9,450 crore for the Public Works Department and Rs 3,500 crore for the Water Resources Department, signalling a strong push towards infrastructure and irrigation projects.

The budget has allocated Rs 9,450 crore for the Public Works Department and Rs 3,500 crore for the Water Resources Department.

Choudhary said Rs 100 crore has been allocated for the construction of 'Education Cities' in Abujhmad and Jagargunda in Bastar region, according to PTI.

An allocation of Rs 50 crore has been made for opening new medical colleges in Kunkuri, Manendragarh and Dantewada.

To promote sports and culture, Rs 10 crore has been allocated for the Bastar and Surguja Olympics, the minister said.

Digital connectivity in remote regions will be strengthened with Rs 5 crore approved for the Bastar Net project, he added.

This is the third budget of the Vishnu Deo Sai government.

The first budget of the government was based on the theme 'GYAN' (Gareeb, Yuva, Annadata, Nari), while last year it focused on 'GATI' (Good Governance, Accelerating Infrastructure, Technology and Industrial Growth).

This year's budget is centred on 'SANKALP' -- Samaveshi Vikas, Adhosanrachna, Nivesh, Kushal Manav Sansadhan, Antyoday, Livelihood and Policy se Parinam tak -- aimed at accelerating the state's development journey, Choudhary said.

The budget also has a provision of Rs 250 crore to set up 23 new industrial parks to boost investment and employment generation.

Besides, Rs 5 crore has been allocated for tourism development at Mainpat in Surguja, while air services will be expanded in Jagdalpur and Ambikapur, Choudhary said.

(With PTI inputs)