The recent-developments-in-chhattisgarhs-maoist-conflict/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chhattisgarh government, led by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, presented an ambitious budget of Rs 1.65 lakh crore. This budget marks increase from the previous year’s allocation and focuses on various sectors to enhance governance and development. The government aims to leverage technology for efficient administration while addressing key areas such as education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Key Budget Allocations
The budget prioritises school education with an allocation of Rs 22,356 crore. This is followed by Rs 18,461 crore for panchayati raj and rural development and Rs 13,506 crore for agriculture. Significant funds are also allocated to the Public Works Department and Food & Civil Supplies Department. The increase in capital expenditure reflects a commitment to infrastructure development.
Major Initiatives Announced
Several initiatives were revealed in the budget. A new homestay policy aims to promote tourism in the tribal areas of Bastar and Surguja. The establishment of a medi city and an education city in New Raipur is set to enhance healthcare and educational facilities. A National Institute of Fashion Technology will also be established to support fashion education.
Industrial and Economic Development
The government has implemented a new industrial policy with an allocation of Rs 1,420 crore. This policy encourages investment in the service sector and aims to support former Maoists and local entrepreneurs. The introduction of a single-window system is intended to simplify business operations.
Transportation and Connectivity
The budget includes plans for a survey of the Raipur-Durg metro line and the Chief Minister Mobile Tower Scheme to improve connectivity in remote areas. Additionally, public transport initiatives are being launched under the Mukhyamantri Parivahan Yojana to facilitate rural commuting.
Environmental and Health Initiatives
The budget allocates funds for the establishment of sickle cell anaemia screening centres across all blocks. It also includes a survey for interlinking major rivers to improve water management. A allocation of Rs 200 crore is dedicated to developing an iconic tourism destination focusing on nature and wildlife.
Security Enhancements
To boost security, the government plans to establish a Special Operation Group (SOG) and a State Industrial Security Force (SISF). These forces will be modelled after existing national security structures to enhance safety and security within the state.
Social Welfare Measures
The budget introduces a new pension fund and increases dearness allowances for state employees. A reduction in petrol prices and VAT on diesel aims to ease the financial burden on citizens. The ‘Chhattisgarh Growth and Stability Fund’ is designed to provide financial support during challenging economic times.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the impact of budget allocations on the education sector in Chhattisgarh.
- Examine the role of technology in enhancing governance in the state of Chhattisgarh.
- What are the implications of establishing a National Institute of Fashion Technology in Chhattisgarh? How might it influence local employment?
- Analyse the significance of the Chhattisgarh Growth and Stability Fund in the context of economic challenges faced by states in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically discuss the impact of budget allocations on the education sector in Chhattisgarh.
- The budget allocates Rs 22,356 crore to the school education department, the highest among all sectors.
- Increased funding aims to improve infrastructure, teaching quality, and access to education in rural areas.
- Emphasis on technology integration in classrooms to enhance learning experiences.
- Potential for increased teacher recruitment and training programs to improve educational outcomes.
- Focus on inclusive education initiatives for marginalized communities and tribal areas.
2. Examine the role of technology in enhancing governance in the state of Chhattisgarh.
- The government emphasizes the use of technology for efficient governance, as stated by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
- Implementation of a single-window system aims to simplify business processes and enhance service delivery.
- Mobile connectivity initiatives under the Chief Minister Mobile Tower Scheme improve access to government services in remote areas.
- Digital platforms for public services can increase transparency and reduce corruption.
- Use of data analytics for better decision-making and resource allocation in various departments.
3. What are the implications of establishing a National Institute of Fashion Technology in Chhattisgarh? How might it influence local employment?
- The establishment of the institute aims to promote fashion education and skill development in the region.
- It can attract students from across India, boosting local economy and educational tourism.
- Potential for creating job opportunities in the fashion industry, both directly and indirectly.
- Collaboration with local artisans and businesses can enhance traditional crafts and promote entrepreneurship.
- Increased focus on innovation in fashion design may lead to a competitive local industry.
4. Analyse the significance of the Chhattisgarh Growth and Stability Fund in the context of economic challenges faced by states in India.
- The fund is designed to provide financial support during economic downturns and unforeseen challenges.
- It can help stabilize the state’s economy, ensuring continuity of essential services and welfare programs.
- The fund may attract investments by showcasing fiscal responsibility and a commitment to economic stability.
- It serves as a buffer against revenue shortfalls, maintaining public confidence in government financial management.
- Establishing such a fund can encourage other states to adopt similar measures for economic resilience.
