Rajasthan Green Budget 2025: ₹5.37 Lakh Crore Plan for Infrastructure, Jobs & Sustainability

Rajasthan Green Budget 2025: ₹5.37 Lakh Crore Plan for Infrastructure, Jobs & Sustainability

Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, Diya Kumari, presented the state’s inaugural Green Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, allocating a total of ₹5.37 lakh crore. This budget emphasizes the core sectors of electricity (Bijli), roads (Sadak), and water (Paani), aiming to propel Rajasthan towards sustainable and inclusive growth.

Focus on Sustainable Infrastructure

A significant portion of the budget, ₹60,000 crore, is dedicated to the development of nine greenfield expressways spanning 2,750 kilometers. These expressways are designed to enhance connectivity with neighboring states, thereby boosting trade and commerce. Additionally, ₹6,000 crore has been earmarked for the construction of 21,000 kilometers of new roads, with an extra ₹6 crore allocated for repairing non-patchable roads. To alleviate urban congestion, ₹50 crore is set aside for preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for ring roads in 15 cities, including Balotra, Jaisalmer, Jalore, Sikar, and Banswara.

Advancements in Energy and Water Resources

The budget outlines plans to produce a surplus of 6,400 megawatts of energy, facilitating 5 lakh new domestic connections and 50,000 agricultural connections. Under the Chief Minister’s Free Electricity Scheme, beneficiaries will receive up to 150 units of free electricity, an increase from the previous 100 units. This initiative is linked to the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, promoting the adoption of solar energy. In urban areas, the Mukhyamantri Jal Jeevan Mission Urban will see the installation of 1,000 tube wells and 1,500 hand pumps, with a total fund allocation of ₹5,830 crore, aiming to improve water accessibility.

Employment Generation and Economic Growth

Addressing the pressing issue of unemployment, the government has pledged to create 1.25 lakh government jobs in the upcoming year. Furthermore, through employment fairs and initiatives under the Rajasthan Employment Policy 2025, an additional 1.5 lakh private-sector jobs are projected. The overarching goal is to transform Rajasthan into a $350 billion economy by 2030, reflecting a strong commitment to economic development.

Healthcare and Social Welfare Initiatives

A notable allocation of ₹3,500 crore has been made for the Mukhyamantri Ayushman Arogya (MAA) Yojana, which focuses on providing free medical treatment and diagnostics. This includes doorstep delivery of medicines for the elderly and the establishment of diabetic clinics in all district hospitals. Pensions for the elderly, widows, single women, disabled individuals, and small and marginal farmers will be increased to ₹1,250, enhancing social security.

Environmental and Green Initiatives

In line with environmental sustainability, the budget proposes the creation of utensil banks in every panchayat to curb plastic usage and the training of 25,000 women as ‘solar didis’ through self-help groups. An allocation of ₹100 crore is designated for building waste-to-wealth parks under the Green Challenge Fund. Additionally, a new scrap policy will phase out vehicles older than 15 years, reducing environmental pollution.

Why This News is Important

The unveiling of Rajasthan’s first Green Budget marks a pivotal shift towards sustainable development, setting a precedent for other Indian states. By prioritizing infrastructure, energy, and water resources, the budget addresses critical areas that directly impact the quality of life and economic prosperity. The emphasis on creating government and private-sector jobs is a strategic move to combat unemployment, a significant concern in the region. Moreover, the substantial investment in healthcare and social welfare demonstrates a commitment to improving public health and social security, especially for vulnerable populations. The environmental initiatives outlined not only aim to preserve the state’s natural resources but also empower communities through sustainable practices. Overall, this budget reflects a holistic approach to development, balancing economic growth with social welfare and environmental conservation.

Historical Context

Historically, Rajasthan has faced challenges related to arid conditions, water scarcity, and limited infrastructure development. Previous budgets primarily focused on traditional sectors without a comprehensive approach to sustainability. The introduction of the Green Budget signifies a transformative approach, integrating modern sustainable practices with the state’s developmental policies. This shift aligns with global trends emphasizing green growth and reflects a growing recognition of the need for environmental stewardship alongside economic development.

Key Takeaways from Rajasthan’s First Green Budget

Important FAQs for Students from this News

What is the total outlay of Rajasthan’s Green Budget for 2025-26?

The total outlay is ₹5.37 lakh crore.

How many new jobs are proposed in the budget?

The budget proposes 1.25 lakh government jobs and aims to facilitate 1.5 lakh private-sector jobs.

What are the key environmental initiatives in the budget?

Key initiatives include the establishment of utensil banks to reduce plastic use, training 25,000 women as ‘solar didis,’ and implementing a scrap policy to phase out vehicles older than 15 years.

How does the budget plan to improve healthcare services?

The budget allocates ₹3,500 crore to the Mukhyamantri Ayushman Arogya (MAA) Yojana, offering free medical treatment, doorstep delivery of medicines for senior citizens, and specialized diabetic clinics.

What measures are taken for better water availability?

Under the Mukhyamantri Jal Jeevan Mission Urban, ₹5,830 crore is allocated for 1,000 tube wells and 1,500 hand pumps to enhance water accessibility.

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