Chhattisgarh: Rs 1.47 Lakh Crore Budget Presented in State Assembly

"Amritkaal: Chhattisgarh Vision @ 2047" aims to make the central state a developed one in Amritkaal by Nov 2024.

Chhattisgarh Finance Minister OP Choudhary presented the 2024–25 Budget of Rs 1,47,446 crore, the first of the newly formed government, as "Amritkaalkeneev ka Budget" in the state Assembly on Friday, 9 February.

The budget focuses on prosperity for Gareeb, Yuva, Anndata, and Naari (GYAN), stimulating infrastructural growth through increased capital expenditure, and promoting employment and livelihood for the state's youth, under "Modi ki Gaurantee" promises.

"Amritkaal: Chhattisgarh Vision @ 2047" aims to make the state a developed one in Amritkaal by November 2024, focusing on inclusive development and growth in all sectors. The first mid-term goal is to double Chhattisgarh's GSDP from Rs 5 lakh crore to Rs 10 lakh crore by 2028.

Highlights of the Chhattisgarh Budget

• The state's revenue is projected to rise by 22 percent without any new taxes or rate increases.

• The capital expenditure for FY 2024–25 is estimated to be around Rs 22,300 crore, a 15 percent increase from the previous year's budget and 20% higher than the previous five years' average of 12 percent.

• The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is projected to grow at 6.56 percent in current FY 2023–24, slightly below the national GDP growth rate of 7.3 percent, despite constant price increases.

The budget allocated for Chhattisgarh's "Modi ki Guarantee" promises includes provisions for construction of 18 lakh houses at Rs 8,369 crore, annual assistance for women, and farmer benefits at Rs 10,000 crore, among other provisions.

• The education sector received a budget allocation of 15.95 percent, followed by agriculture and allied services at 14.05 percent, the rural sector at 12.06 percent, the infrastructure sector at 11 percent, and the health sector at 6.92 percent.

• The government has allocated Rs 266 crore to enhance administrative work and promote transparency across all administrative departments, focusing on digitally advanced technologies and IT-enabled services.

• Districts such as Bastar and Sarguja are set to develop eco-tourism and natural therapy centres. A climate action plan is also being prepared to reduce carbon emissions, encourage solar rooftops, and prioritise sports facilities and infrastructure.

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