ગુજરાતી
English
Ahmedabad, February 19, 2026
The budget for 2026-27, amounting to ₹408,053 crore, was presented in the Gujarat Assembly on February 18, 2026. The budget for 2025-26 was ₹370,250 crore. Expenditures increased by ₹37,000 crore compared to last year. The budget size has been increased by 10 percent compared to last year.
Funds have been reduced in three sectors. There are no new taxes in the budget, but relief of ₹11,000 crore has been provided. Finance Minister Kanu Desai presented the budget for the fifth consecutive time.
Despite increased rainfall, cyclones, and sea level rise due to climate change, there is a lack of awareness about it. Farmers in Gujarat are facing hardship due to natural disasters, unseasonal rains, and poor market prices. Many are facing financial hardship.
Before the budget was presented, the Congress and AAP protested outside the Assembly. The Congress demanded loan waivers, reductions in gas cylinder prices, equal pay for equal work, an end to the contract system in the state, and budget allocation based on the ST and SC population. While promises have been made in the budget, they are not being fulfilled. It was hoped that the poor, middle class, and farmers would receive relief, but the budget is more of a pipe dream than a reality.
The government has dashed many public hopes. The budget lacks a single word about the crop insurance scheme. Amit Chavda called the budget anti-farmer, saying only a marginal increase has been made for the SC and ST communities. This is a budget that disappoints farmers and the needy.
₹1,278 crore will be spent to develop Ahmedabad into an Olympic city.
The government’s comprehensive and inclusive vision, based on five pillars: social security, human resource development, infrastructure facilities, economic development, and green growth, has been allocated ₹4,08,053 crore (₹4,08,053 crore) for the year 2026-27.
The picture of development is presented by presenting statistics in the name of major infrastructure projects, sports, and industry. Basic issues like employment, agriculture, inflation, and social security have been ignored. The budget does not do justice to the public; instead, it is a document full of advertising and propaganda. Gujarat has once again been shown dreams. This clearly shows that the government’s priorities are far from the public interest.
The public had high hopes and expectations from the government that the double-engine government would present a budget that would take concrete steps in the public interest. But the presented budget clearly shows this: it is increasing inflation and promoting corruption. There is no relief for ordinary people on the ground. Dreams of 2047 are shown, while today’s reality is ignored.
Suicides continue to occur, yet the government has not made a single announcement in the budget regarding the complete waiver of farmers’ loans. The state government has repeatedly raised the demand for implementing a crop insurance scheme, yet the budget remains silent on this issue.
There is no announcement of inflation relief for women. While other states implement schemes for providing cheap gas cylinders, no scheme such as gas cylinder relief or monthly assistance has been announced for the sisters of Gujarat. The increase in funds for women and child development is also very minimal, dashing women’s hopes.
This budget is also disappointing for youth and laborers.
There has been no announcement of increasing the wages of MNREGA workers, improving the minimum wage in the unorganized sector, or eliminating the fixed-pay and contract system. Asha workers, Anganwadi workers, and mid-day meal workers have long been demanding equal pay for equal work, but their demands have once again been ignored. The government is also silent on the demand for the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
There is no clear mention of a fair population distribution for SC, ST, OBC, minority, disabled, and elderly citizens in the Social Justice Act. The demand for increased widow, elderly, and disabled pensions has also not been met.
2,463 New Buses to Be Run
Keeping in mind the safety and convenience of citizens in public transport, 2,463 new buses equipped with modern technology, including 500 AC electric buses, will be introduced. Additionally, 500 mini buses will be operated for tribal communities, students, and laborers commuting to work in industrial areas. A total of ₹1,286 crore has been allocated for this.
₹97 crore has been allocated to remove the Ganda Babul trees in Kutch and other forested areas and replace them with other local trees, including bamboo, and to restore the grasslands in the Banni Ghansiya Plains in Kutch.
₹97 crore has been allocated to restore the grasslands in the Banni Ghansiya Plains in Kutch. ₹32 crore will be allocated to create a green belt around the Aravalli Range and prevent erosion by planting more trees along both banks of the state’s major rivers.
New Definition of Pre-owned Lands
The state government has recently made important policy decisions aimed at farmers, the middle class, and industry. New, undistributed, or limited-use land for agriculture in rural areas will now automatically be considered “pre-owned,” exempting farmers from paying premiums.
To further enhance law and order and road safety measures, the state’s emergency services have been covered under the Dial-112 Janrakshak Project. This will improve emergency response times and
To effectively implement this, there is a plan to create 3,000 manpower across various cadres.
A Data Fusion Center and a Center of Excellence for AI in Policing will be established for the Gujarat Police. This will collect and analyze all essential police data.
A provision of ₹60 crore has been made for the contract.
There is a plan to provide 20,444 residential houses equipped with modern technology over the next five years for police personnel who are constantly on duty to maintain law and order and protect the public. A provision of ₹1,571 crore has been made in this budget.
An allocation of ₹100 crore for providing clean water to every household
Providing regular, quality water to every household is our government’s commitment. To strengthen the water supply system in the areas of 32 urban local bodies, the Mission for Daily Water Supply, “Jeevan Dhara,” will be implemented. I am making a provision of ₹100 crore for this.
Plan to Make Gujarat a Dump-Free State
Gujarat is moving towards becoming a “dump-free” state. Under this initiative, over 25.3 million metric tons of waste accumulated at dump sites has been scientifically removed. Additionally, there are plans to make all remaining sites dump-free and use them for public purposes.
₹5,600 crore allocated for the Chief Minister’s Rural Roads Scheme
Under the Chief Minister’s Rural Roads Scheme, work is underway to connect villages and surrounding areas, maintain roads, and replace causeways with elevated bridges. A provision of ₹5,600 crore has been made for this.
₹800 crore allocated for the “Garvi Gujarat High-Speed Corridor”
Approximately 1,155 km of roads across the state have been designated as the “Garvi Gujarat High-Speed Corridor,” a crucial link in the state’s overall development, employment, and modern infrastructure. For which a provision of ₹800 crore has been made.
2026 declared as Gujarat Tourism Year
Gujarat has a unique confluence of nature and culture, from the beauty of the white desert to the roaring waves of the sea, from the Sun Temple to the Statue of Unity, from the roar of Gir to Somnath. To establish Gujarat’s tourism sector at the national and international level, I declare that the year 2026 will be celebrated as “Gujarat Tourism Year.”
₹236 crore provision for the Statue of Unity
The Statue of Unity has emerged as an iconic tourist destination in the world. This has significantly boosted investment in sectors such as transport, hospitality, and handicrafts, creating significant employment opportunities for the local tribal community. I am making a provision of ₹236 crore to enhance the infrastructure facilities in this area.
“Somnath Swabhiman Parv” will be celebrated
Somnath is a symbol of pride, honor, glory, and self-respect for the entire nation. Despite repeated attacks, the Somnath Temple stands proudly today, thanks to the unwavering faith of the people since 1,000 years ago. To mark this occasion, the “Somnath Swabhiman Parv,” initiated under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, will be celebrated throughout the year.
Somnath to be developed as a ‘Global Destination’
By linking a sacred heritage site like Somnath with development, the government has fulfilled the mantra of “Development as well as Heritage.” The plan to develop Somnath as a ‘Global Destination’ is aimed at fulfilling the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘One State: One Global Destination’.
₹95 crore provision for PM Modi’s dream project
Lothal and Dholavira, witnesses to the thousands of years old Indus Valley Civilization on the sacred land of Gujarat, have become new centers of attraction for tourists from around the world. PM Modi’s dream project, the National Maritime Heritage Museum, which will showcase India’s ancient culture, is being built in Lothal. There are plans to train and prepare 1,000 tourist guides at tourist destinations in the state. A total of ₹95 crore has been allocated for this project. The “Wed in Gujarat” campaign will promote Gujarat as a wedding destination, showcasing the state’s traditions, hospitality, and historical splendor.
Announcement of the “Ambaji Corridor Masterplan”
A provision of ₹300 crore has been made under the “Ambaji Corridor Masterplan” for the overall development of the Ambaji pilgrimage site.
Major announcements for devotees
I propose a provision of ₹55 crore for the renovation of the holy pilgrimage site of Bahucharaji, the Mahashivratri fair held at Girnar in Junagadh, and for the convenience of devotees visiting the Narmada Parikrama.
Somnath and Shivrajpur beaches are being developed as attractive tourist centers with world-class amenities. Additionally, I am making a total provision of ₹60 crore to promote local tourism in Visavada-Porbandar.
Special bus stations will be built at holy pilgrimage sites like Somnath and Ambaji, as well as elsewhere in the state, and a bus port with modern facilities will be built at Somnath as a multi-modal transport hub. An allocation of ₹447 crore has been made for this.
₹150 crore allocated for the Kadana Dam Solar Project
A new floating solar project is planned at the Kadana Dam to maximize the use of the water surface of various reservoirs and canals in the state. A provision of ₹150 crore has been made for this.
₹613 crore allocated for the copper project in Ambaji
The Self-Reliant India initiative
To achieve this, the state’s vast untapped mineral resources will be exploited using state-of-the-art technology. The Ambaji Copper Project will become Gujarat’s first underground copper-lead-zinc mine, reducing import dependence. A provision of ₹613 crore has been allocated for this.
A provision of ₹300 crore has been allocated for producing gas from lignite.
Also, there are plans to produce gas from lignite through underground coal gasification. This will help address pollution issues. A provision of ₹300 crore has been allocated for this.
Reducing problems for the state’s citizens…
Through the Gujarat Unified Digital Stack initiative, citizens
will be able to access government services quickly through a single digital platform. This will reduce duplication of documents for different services, saving time and cost. An allocation of ₹100 crore has been allocated for this.
Announcement of the “Gujarat Wire-Free City Mission”
A provision of ₹500 crore has been made under the “Gujarat Wire-Free City Mission” to convert existing overhead power lines in urban areas of the state to underground cables. Keeping national security in mind, ₹100 crore has been allocated to convert overhead line infrastructure in sensitive border areas to state-of-the-art elevated cable networks.
State Disaster Mitigation Fund to be Created
A State Disaster Mitigation Fund will be established to mitigate the impact of disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and cyclones. An allocation of ₹1,855 crore has been made for this.
Funds for the Chief Minister’s Urban Development Scheme have been increased
To ensure world-class civic services, the existing provision under the Golden Jubilee Chief Minister’s Urban Development Scheme has been increased by approximately 17% to ₹16,116 crore.
Smart Parking Will Be Developed
To improve pedestrian transport efficiency and promote easy urban mobility, smart parking will be built in cities and municipalities at a cost of ₹100 crore.
Five New Satellite Towns Will Be Developed
To reduce the burden on major cities in the state and create new employment opportunities, five new satellite towns with modern amenities will be developed near major cities. Kalol, Sanand, Savli, Bardoli, and Hirasar are planned, and will be connected to major cities through a regional rapid transit system.
Ahmedabad City Will Be Made an “Olympic Ready City”
For the upcoming Commonwealth Games 2030, Ahmedabad City will be developed as an “Olympic Ready City.” Under this initiative, an international-level sports complex and stadium will be built and developed, along with modern public transport facilities. A total of ₹1278 crore will be allocated for this.
What are the advertisements for women?
As one of the four pillars of GYAN, the role of women’s power is crucial in building a developed Gujarat.
– With a firm resolve to link women’s empowerment with economic self-reliance, the state government has given special priority to the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ campaign. A provision of ₹47 crore has been made to promote self-employment activities, start new businesses, and expand existing ones, both in rural and urban areas.
– Sakhi Mandal self-help groups have become the strongest pillar of women’s empowerment today. I am making a provision of ₹45 crore for interest subsidy on bank loans and incentive support to expand and scale self-help group businesses.
₹972 crore allocated for the Supplementary Nutrition Scheme
₹100 crore allocated for the Supplementary Nutrition Scheme. ₹972 crore will be allocated for providing hot breakfast and meals to children aged 3 to 6 years in Anganwadis, as well as take-home rations for children, adolescents, pregnant and lactating mothers.
₹1250 crore allocated for the Namo Lakshmi Scheme
The effective implementation of the Namo Lakshmi Scheme has significantly increased school enrollment for girls studying in grades 9 to 12 over the past two years. ₹1250 crore has been allocated for this purpose.
“Namo Kaushalya Lakshmi Scheme” announced
To promote women’s representation, I am announcing a new “Namo Kaushalya Lakshmi Scheme” for all girls studying in ITIs in the state. ₹40 crore has been allocated for this.
Large allocation for Ganga Swaroopa Financial Assistance Scheme
The Ganga Swaroopa Financial Assistance Scheme is in place to provide monthly financial assistance to widows through DBT. A provision of ₹100 crore has been made for this scheme. A further provision of ₹2,848 crore has been made.
Economic Master Plans Prepared for 6 Regions
To ensure all-round and balanced development in the state, an Economic Master Plan has been prepared for 6 regions: South Gujarat, Central Gujarat, North Gujarat, Saurashtra, Saurashtra Coastal Area, and Kutch. Projects have been tailored to the needs of each region. This will boost economic activity, employment generation, and capital investment. I am making a provision of ₹2,000 crore for this scheme.
Provision of ₹10,000 crore for the Developed Gujarat Fund
The government is committed to accelerating development projects through the Developed Gujarat Fund of ₹50,000 crore.
This year, a provision of ₹10,000 crore has been made in the Develop Gujarat Fund. Under the Develop Gujarat Fund, long-term and large-scale projects will be initiated for the development of the state.
Additional provision of ₹3,000 crore for two expressways
I am making an additional provision of ₹2,000 crore. ₹3,000 crore for the Namo Shakti Expressway and Somnath Dwarka Expressway projects, which will connect important locations in the state. These projects will be a confluence of culture and tourism.
Important announcements for Dholera
The semicon hubs being developed in Dholera and Sanand are positioning Gujarat as a key player in chip manufacturing, positioning them as a key pillar of India’s semicon self-reliance. Phase 1 of the logistics and trunk infrastructure project is being implemented in the Dholera SIR, which includes the development of the Dholera Airport, modern roads, water and wastewater treatment facilities, underground power distribution, and smart ICT facilities. This will make Dholera a future global hub for industry, innovation, and employment. A total of ₹610 crore has been allocated for this, including the Developed Gujarat Fund.
₹1,237 crore for the Sujalam Sufalam Pipeline Project
₹1,237 crore for the Sujalam Sufalam Pipeline Project, diverting Narmada water from the sea to the arid regions of North Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch.
₹473 crore for the project and ₹1,333 crore for the Kutch project, a total of ₹3,043 crore has been allocated.
The first phase of providing irrigation facilities through pipelines and canals to villages located at the far end of the Nalakantha area of Ahmedabad district has been completed, and the second phase has begun, for which a provision of ₹958 crore has been made.
What about the fisheries industry?
The government is committed to making the state’s fisheries and animal husbandry sector a strong source of income, employment, and nutrition. To achieve the current goal of increasing the state’s fish production and exports, a provision of ₹1,340 crore has been made for infrastructure facilities, equipment support, and storage.
₹500 crore provision for cow rearing
By supporting animal husbandry, safety, disease detection, and related infrastructure, Gujarat’s contribution to the country’s milk production will be increased to more than 10%. The Gau Mata Poshan Yojana implemented by the state government clearly demonstrates the state’s commitment to cow protection, cow rearing, and cow welfare. ₹500 crore has been allocated for this.
Major announcement for interest subsidy under Kisan Credit Cards
I am making provision for ₹1,539 crore to provide interest subsidy under Kisan Credit Cards so that farmers, livestock farmers, and marine farmers can complete their work on time.
Bio CNG plants to be installed in 4 zones
Cooperative societies will be supported in multi-purpose projects, ranging from grain storage to bio-CNG plants in 4 zones across the state. This will provide additional income for livestock farmers and green fuel for vehicles. ₹112 crore has been allocated for this.
Allocation of ₹1,565 crore for farmers
Mechanization is essential for farmers to reduce farming costs and increase crop yields and income. Machinery such as tractors, power tillers, seed drills, and harvesters enhance farming speed and accuracy. ₹1,565 crore has been allocated to assist small and marginal farmers in purchasing various farm mechanization tools.
The government is committed to ensuring that more farmers adopt organic farming. To expand and promote organic farming, a provision of ₹39 crore has been made for the establishment of Centers of Excellence, market access, marketing and brand promotion, and assistance in handholding and certification.
There is a plan to establish six Centers of Excellence in the state for rice, pulses, oilseeds, agricultural mechanization, value addition, and agro-processing. A provision of ₹12 crore has been made for this.
Major announcement for GIDCs
To further improve ease of doing business, 25 GIDCs will be made smart with modern technology. This will involve strengthening water, electricity, gas, and digital networks with an investment of ₹1,250 crore. Additionally, there is a plan to renovate 120 mini GIDCs with an investment of ₹50 crore.
Five new GIDCs will be created
To promote industrialization and create employment opportunities in the tribal areas of the state, five new industrial estates will be established, two in the Jhalod and Garbada talukas of Dahod district and three in other districts, including the Aravalli district.
Major announcement for the textile industry
To make the state’s textile industry globally competitive, an investment of over ₹67,000 crore has been made under the “Gujarat Textile Policy,” which has created over 200,000 direct jobs. Further investment is expected in this sector in the future, leading to significant direct employment. An allocation of ₹2,755 crore has been made for this purpose.
The Gujarat State Export Promotion Council will be established.
Gujarat leads the country’s merchandise exports with a contribution of over 26%. I announce the establishment of Gujarat State Export Promotion Council (GEPC) to provide promotion, training, financial and market support.
This sector can be further promoted through this initiative.
A major decision for handicrafts
With the commitment to a self-reliant India, the state government is promoting balanced regional development in rural and urban areas of all districts under the “Vocal for Local” initiative. Nearly 90 handloom, handicraft, and village industry products from the state have been selected by the Government of India under the “One District, One Product” initiative. Artisans producing these products will be provided with Swadeshi Haats and e-commerce platforms to sell them.
I-HUbs for Startups to be established in major cities
Our government recognizes technology as a tool for change. Expanding the ecosystem created in Ahmedabad, i-Hub for Startups regional centers will be established in Surat, Vadodara, Mehsana, and Rajkot, for which a provision of ₹80 crore has been made.
A provision of ₹100 crore. ₹1,775 crore for MSMEs
Gujarat, which contributes 19% to the country’s industrial production, has a robust MSME (Small and Medium Enterprises) ecosystem for job creation. With over 2.9 million MSME registrations, Gujarat is among the leading states. To promote these units, I propose a provision of ₹1,775 crore for the Atmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme to support MSMEs.
Integrated Schools to Be Established
With the motto of “One Campus – Uninterrupted Education – Strong Future,” I announce the establishment of integrated schools from nursery to 10th grade to ensure seamless learning for students. This will ensure quality and stability in education. I propose a provision of ₹120 crore for this purpose.
Namo Central Library to be Built
The country’s largest and most modern Namo Central Library will be built in Gandhinagar, offering digital learning and teaching facilities. For which a provision of ₹100 crore has been made in this budget. Furthermore,
Under the plan to establish Bhagwan Birsa Munda Libraries in all talukas of tribal areas, libraries will be established in 15 talukas this year.
Provision of ₹250 crore for the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana
The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana has increased student interest in science stream admissions, resulting in a 19% increase in total admissions over the last two years. A provision of ₹250 crore has been made for this.
Major announcement for the disabled
To ensure that the disabled do not face any difficulties in studying in school, a provision of transport/escort allowance has been made under the transport system.
Provision of ₹226 crore for the Namo Gujarat Skill and Employment Mission
I propose a provision of ₹100 crore. ₹226 crore to accelerate the Namo Gujarat Skill and Employment Mission. Its objective is to prioritize skill development to prepare human resources for future needs and, through active partnerships with industries, to prepare youth for self-reliance and employment.
Provision of ₹80 crore for allowances for trainees undergoing apprenticeships
More than 100,000 apprentices are undergoing training under the Chief Minister’s Apprenticeship Scheme to provide skilled training for employment. This scheme will also help promote apprenticeship programs offered by the service sector. I propose a provision of ₹80 crore to provide monthly assistance of up to ₹3,000 to these trainees.
Allocation of ₹51 crore for a research park at LD College
To promote research and entrepreneurship in the state, LD Institutes will be established on the model of IITs. A provision of ₹51 crore for the establishment of a research park at the Engineering College in Ahmedabad.
A major announcement for students from SC-ST and other reserved castes
Announcement to increase the monthly allowance for approximately 277,552 students from tribal, scheduled caste, developing caste, and economically backward classes studying in ashram and grant-in-aid hostels from ₹2,160 to ₹340.
926 new PM Shri schools to be opened
926 more PM Shri schools will be opened to provide a quality education environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure.
Income limit for Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme benefits increased to ₹6 lakh
Under the Government of India’s Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, scholarships are provided to tribal and scheduled caste students to pursue higher education. This benefit is available to girls regardless of their income limit and to boys with an annual income limit of ₹250,000. To extend the benefits of this scholarship to more boys, the annual income limit has been increased from ₹250,000 to ₹600,000.
– Shramik Annapurna Kendras will be expanded, and 121 new centers will be opened.
– The number of 154 Dhanvantari Arogya Raths will be increased, and 50 new Arogya Raths will be launched. A total of ₹260 crore has been allocated for this.
₹1,500 crore allocated for VB-G RAM G
– The VB-G RAM G (Vikassheel Bharat Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural)) scheme has taken a significant step towards the welfare and employment of rural areas. The number of working days has been increased from 100 to 125, with a total allocation of ₹1,500 crore.
₹5,967 crore allocated for scholarships
– Over 36% of Gujarat’s population is young. This includes social justice, financial, and
The IBEL and Education Departments have allocated ₹5,967 crore to provide scholarships to approximately 9.7 million students.
₹3,472 crore allocated for the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya-Mukhyamantri Amrutam (Maa Yojana)
Over 27.2 million people have been covered under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya-Mukhyamantri Amrutam (Maa Yojana) scheme. Of these, over 6.8 million have benefited from cashless treatment. A provision of ₹3,472 crore has been made for this scheme.
₹869 crore allocated for higher education loans
The Finance Minister stated that the government is always sensitive to the development of the backward and vulnerable sections of society, as well as tribal people. Over the past three years, more than 135,000 beneficiaries have been provided loans and financial assistance for higher education. To expedite this work of the corporations, I am making a provision of ₹869 crore.
Provision of ₹360 crore for construction of Anganwadi centers
The state government is developing over 53,000 Anganwadi centers as strong pillars of nutrition, early childhood education, and health services. I propose a provision of ₹360 crore for the construction of two thousand new Anganwadi centers this year, which will enhance the physical and digital infrastructure of Anganwadi centers.
Special provisions for GYAN (poor, youth, food providers), and women’s empowerment
This budget includes several provisions to further strengthen GYAN (poor, youth, food providers), and women’s empowerment.
‘Ghar Sauna Matte’: Provision of ₹4,272 crore for housing scheme
As a welfare state, the pledge of “Ghar Sauna Matte” is being truly fulfilled by providing pucca houses to poor and middle-class families. Under this scheme, there is a plan to provide more than 315,000 houses this year under schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural and Urban), Dr. Ambedkar Awas Yojana, Pandit Deendayal Awas Yojana, and Halpati Awas Yojana. For this, I recommend a provision of ₹4,272 crore.
Gujarat contributes 8.2% to the national GDP
Thanks to these efforts of the state government, Gujarat’s economic dynamics are playing a significant and important role in the country’s development. Today, Gujarat contributes 8.2% to the national GDP. Gujarat’s per capita income is ₹301,000, which is more than 60% of the national average, placing it at the forefront among the states of the country.
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Gujarat announces policy as a policy-driven state
As a policy-driven state, the Gujarat government has announced important policies. These include the Gujarat Spacetech Policy, the Gujarat Electronics Component Manufacturing Policy, the Action Plan for Implementation of AI, the Integrated Renewable Energy Policy, and the Gujarat Green Hydrogen Policy.
PM Modi’s Resolve Mentioned
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed 24 years of uninterrupted public service as a public servant and has given a new direction to the development of Gujarat and the country. He has enhanced India’s prestige globally by fulfilling public expectations through good governance and public welfare. On behalf of the entire people of Gujarat, I congratulate him for making India the fourth largest economy in the world. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state’s development journey is progressing, furthering the resolve for Developed India @ 2024 and Self-Reliant India.
Congress Presence in the Assembly Before the Budget
Congress leaders had protested in the Assembly before the budget. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Amit Chavda said that the government needs to take concrete steps instead of just making announcements in the budget.
Gujarat Finance Minister Kanu Desai arrives at the Assembly
The Gujarat Finance Minister is set to present the Gujarat budget for the fifth consecutive time today. He has arrived at the Assembly. The budget will be presented in just a few minutes. This time, there are indications that the budget will exceed ₹4 lakh crore. Kanu Desai’s budget book is a topic of discussion. Bina Hasmukh Patel has created a traditional painting on it. He has been creating new illustrations for the budget book for the past four years.
Budget Size: Target of ₹4 lakh crore
According to experts, Gujarat’s budget this year could exceed ₹400,000 crore. This is primarily due to the state’s increasing infrastructure investment and social welfare schemes.
The math of income and expenditure (where did the money come from and where did it go?)
Main sources of income:
GST and other taxes: 43.22%
Public debt and loan recovery: 30.47%
Share of central taxes: 13.47%
Central grants: 11.97%
Spending allocation:
Development expenditure: 65.57% (education, health, industry)
Non-development expenditure: 23.45% (administrative expenditure)
Debt repayment: 9.16%
Loans and advances: 1.31%
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s perspective on the budget
65 percent of the total budget expenditure has been allocated for development expenditure.
➢ Furthermore, this budget is based on five pillars: social security, human resource development, infrastructure facilities, economic development, and green growth. ➢ 20 percent, or over ₹64,000 crore, has been allocated for education, sports, arts, and culture.
➢ To create an educated, prepared, talented, and future-ready youth force, the budget allocates ₹226 crore for the ‘Namo Gujarat Skill and Employment Mission.’
➢ 19 percent has been allocated for health, well-being, and social services, and 11 percent for agriculture, irrigation, water, and urban development, making it a significant step towards achieving the Prime Minister’s vision.
The promise of 100% development will be fulfilled.
➢ This year’s 39% allocation for capital expenditure will further accelerate the pace of continuous and rapid development due to prudent financial management.
➢ In keeping with Prime Minister Modi’s call for green growth, this year’s budget has allocated over ₹15,000 crore as part of the Green Budget.
➢ Thanks to Modi’s vision, Gujarat is shining on the global tourism map. ➢ To take the tourism sector to new heights, the year 2026 has been declared ‘Gujarat Tourism Year’ and a budget of ₹6,500 crore has been allocated for this.
In the year celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda, over ₹35,000 crore has been allocated to bring tribal areas into the mainstream of development.
A surge irrigation scheme is also planned for 51,480 hectares in 18 talukas across four tribal districts.
Five new GIDCs will be established in tribal areas to provide employment opportunities for tribal youth at home.
Due to the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, Ahmedabad has been awarded the opportunity to host the Commonwealth Games.
To this end, over ₹1,200 crore has been allocated to prepare Ahmedabad for the Olympics with sports infrastructure and modern transport services. The budget also allocated ₹800 crore for future-ready infrastructure in the state. An investment of ₹800 crore in the Gujarat High-Speed Corridor will create next-generation connectivity. ₹600 crore has been allocated for climate-resilient and new-technology routes. ₹800 crore has been allocated for AI and deep tech. To position Gujarat at the forefront of AI and digital governance initiatives, over ₹850 crore has been allocated, and a data fusion center and center of excellence have been announced. 8 The state government has allocated approximately ₹7,000 crore for balanced economic development through 6 regional economic master plans, further paving the way for Developed Gujarat 2047. (Google translation from Gujarati)
