The Hemant Soren-led Jharkhand government presented a Rs 1.45 lakh-crore budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 on Monday, emphasizing social welfare, industrial growth, and tourism. Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore, while presenting the budget, projected a 7.5 percent economic growth rate for the state and reinforced the government’s commitment to the welfare of women, the poor, and marginalized communities.
Key Highlights of Jharkhand Budget 2025-26
Social Welfare and Financial Assistance for Women
A significant portion of the budget has been dedicated to social welfare programs:
Rs 13,363 crore allocated for the Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana, a financial assistance scheme for women aged 18-50.
Rs 5,000 crore earmarked for free electricity, benefiting lakhs of households.
Massive Push for Industrial Growth and Employment Generation
The Jharkhand government aims to attract Rs 20,000 crore in investments, with the expectation of generating 15,000 direct and indirect jobs. This move is expected to boost the state’s economy and increase employment opportunities for the youth.
Tourism Development: Ropeways and Glass Bridges
Tourism is a major focus of the budget, with plans to enhance infrastructure at key tourist destinations:
Heli-shuttle services will be introduced from Ranchi to major religious and tourist sites such as Deoghar, Basukinath, Rajrappa, Itkhori, Betla National Park, and Patratu Valley.
Glass bridges will be constructed at prominent tourist locations to attract more visitors.
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Ropeway projects will be developed in Jonha, Hundru, Kauleshwari, and Trikut, enhancing accessibility to scenic destinations.
Rs 336.64 crore has been allocated to the tourism sector to improve facilities and boost revenue.
Education and Skill Development Get a Boost
The Jharkhand government has prioritized education with major allocations:
Rs 15,198.35 crore for primary and secondary education.
Rs 2,409.20 crore for higher and technical education.
Establishment of two new universities, five law colleges, and six medical colleges to expand educational opportunities.
A new fintech university and schools of business and mass communication will be set up in key districts to promote vocational education and skill development.
New law colleges will be opened in Ranchi, Hazaribag, Dhanbad, Dumka, and Palamu, strengthening legal education in the state.
Healthcare Sector Strengthened
To improve healthcare facilities across Jharkhand, the government has allocated Rs 7,470.50 crore to the sector. This investment will enhance medical infrastructure, provide better access to healthcare services, and support new hospital projects.
Economic and Political Context
With the Assembly elections approaching, the Jharkhand government has strategically allocated funds to key sectors, ensuring holistic development. The focus on women’s welfare, tourism, and industrial growth reflects a broader vision for long-term economic stability.
As the new fiscal year unfolds, the implementation of these budgetary measures will be closely monitored, determining their impact on Jharkhand’s progress and prosperity.