Raipur, Chhattisgarh: Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday said that India’s Union Budget 2026–27 is not merely an annual financial document but a long-term roadmap aimed at transforming the country into a developed nation by 2047.
Speaking at an interaction program held at the New Circuit House in Raipur during his visit to Chhattisgarh, Khattar outlined key provisions of the budget and detailed the benefits allocated to the state across infrastructure, connectivity, agriculture, industry, and environmental protection.
Historic Railway Allocation for Chhattisgarh
Khattar announced that Chhattisgarh has received a historic allocation of ₹7,470 crore for railway development in the Union Budget 2026–27. The funding will be used to expand rail connectivity, increase capacity, and develop new rail corridors across the state.
He said projects include broad-gauge expansion, construction of new railway stations in several districts—including the Raipur–Durg region—and overall strengthening of railway infrastructure to support economic growth.
Boost to Air Connectivity
Highlighting improvements in aviation infrastructure, the minister said that under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, regular flight services have been launched from Jagdalpur, Bilaspur, and Ambikapur.
In addition, Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur has been included under the Krishi Udan scheme, enabling faster and cost-effective transportation of agricultural produce. This move, he said, would directly benefit farmers by improving access to national markets.
Expansion of Roads and Highways
Khattar noted that since 2014, the central government has prioritized highway development in Chhattisgarh. Over 3,400 kilometers of national highways have already been constructed.
Under the Bharatmala Project, approval has been granted for more than 571 kilometers of national highway corridors, aimed at improving connectivity between industrial hubs and rural regions, thereby accelerating economic activity.
“The budget has been prepared keeping in mind India’s financial vision for the next 25 years,” Khattar said. “It is centered on strengthening the economy, expanding infrastructure, and empowering poor families and small and medium enterprises.”
Focus on Agriculture, Industry, and Self-Reliance
The minister said agricultural development in Chhattisgarh will receive a boost through initiatives such as the Amrit Sarovar scheme, which promotes fisheries and water conservation.
He also highlighted the government’s push to strengthen domestic manufacturing, including semiconductor production and large industrial machinery, as part of the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
Under the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana, provisions have been made to help local products reach wider markets.
Investment, Infrastructure, and Environmental Measures
Khattar said the budget places special emphasis on investment and financial expertise, with states collectively receiving ₹1.85 trillion, nearly 30 percent higher than the previous year.
A new risk coverage policy has been introduced for infrastructure projects to protect businesses from losses due to natural disasters or accidents. Additionally, improvements in coal transportation, cargo coastal shipping, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) have been planned, with a proposed investment of ₹20,000 crore over the next five years.
Thousands of Crores in Direct Benefits for the State
According to the minister, seven new railway corridors will be developed nationwide. Out of a total national outlay of ₹54 trillion, Chhattisgarh is set to receive benefits worth ₹50,427 crore.
This includes ₹9,704 crore allocated to the state government, ₹7,770 crore for railway development, ₹34,000 crore for road expansion, integrated development of the Raipur–Jagdalpur region, and plans to develop Raipur airport as an agricultural cargo hub.
Khattar said the Union Budget reflects a long-term commitment to balanced regional development, positioning Chhattisgarh as a key beneficiary in India’s growth journey toward 2047.