From Naxalite-affected areas to knowledge hubs, a new picture of the changing state
Raipur. The state government has made visionary and public welfare provisions in the 2026-27 budget, placing education and village industries at the forefront of development. Departmental Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav stated that this budget is a historic step towards strengthening the state’s human capital, providing quality opportunities to the youth, and giving global recognition to traditional artisans. The government’s clear goal is holistic development, empowered citizens, and a self-reliant state.
A State Moving Towards Excellent Education Through Model Schools
To strengthen quality and infrastructure in the field of education, approximately 350 schools are being developed as model schools under the PM-Shri scheme. In this regard, the “Swami Vivekananda Utkrisht Shala Yojana” is being launched, with 150 schools selected in the first phase and a provision of ₹100 crore. Schools with integrated campuses from primary to higher secondary will be ensured to have modern facilities and a quality educational environment, ensuring students receive a holistic and competitive education.
Safe Buildings and Strong Infrastructure for Every Child
The state government is committed to ensuring that no school in the state remains without a building. A total of ₹123 crore has been allocated in the budget for the construction of 500 primary, 100 middle, 50 high, and 50 higher secondary school buildings. This initiative will not only provide a safe and conducive learning environment for students but will also strengthen access to education in rural and remote areas. Furthermore, the decision to double the amount of snacks for NCC students will encourage the morale and discipline of the youth. A New Chapter in Education in Bastar: Two Education Cities to Be Established
Based on the successful experience of Dantewada, new Education Cities will be established in Abujhmad and Jagargunda, for which a provision of ₹100 crore has been made. These Education Cities will develop a complete educational ecosystem, including schools, ITIs, pre-matriculation and post-matriculation hostels, and teacher housing. This initiative will connect the youth of the Bastar region with the mainstream, providing them with opportunities to advance at the national and international levels, and transform Naxal-affected areas into hubs of education and opportunity. Global recognition for handicrafts, new markets for artisans
The state government, under the Rural Industries Department, is taking concrete steps to promote handicrafts as a powerful means of livelihood empowerment. To increase the income of thousands of families involved in Dhokra art, bamboo art, and clay art, showrooms will be established at airports in five major cities across the country, providing a national platform for local products. Additionally, artisans will be provided financial support to participate in national and international fairs, enabling their products to find a wider market.
Unity Mall and Glazing Unit to Provide Modern Marketing Platform
A budget provision of ₹93 crore has been made for the construction of Unity Mall in Raipur, which will provide a modern and sustainable marketing platform for the state’s handicraft products. Additionally, a glazing unit will be established in Goriya village of Kunkuri at a cost of ₹2.86 crore, which will give clay crafts a modern design and market-oriented look. This government initiative will give new recognition to the skills of traditional artisans and ensure a substantial improvement in their standard of living.
Minister Gajendra Yadav said that this Budget 2026-27 will prove to be a milestone in making the state self-reliant and prosperous by strengthening education, skill development, and traditional industries. The state government is committed to ensuring that every student has access to quality education and every artisan has the opportunity for a respectable livelihood; this is the foundation of a developed and inclusive state.
