Bhopal, Feb 18 (NationPress) The Finance Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Jagdish Devda, unveiled a budget of Rs 4.38 lakh crore for the fiscal year 2026-27 during the state Assembly proceedings on Wednesday. This budget is designed with a strong focus on welfare initiatives for women, farmers, and marginalized communities, while also detailing ambitious plans for infrastructure, industry, and sustainable development.

Among the notable provisions, the recruitment of 15,000 teachers aims to bolster the education sector, complemented by the addition of 22,500 personnel in the police force.

The 'Ladli Behna' Yojana stands out with the largest allocation of Rs 23,882 crore, ensuring continued direct financial support to women and emphasizing the government’s commitment to gender empowerment and household economic stability.

In agriculture, the announcement of subsidized solar irrigation pumps for one lakh farmers fulfills Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's pledge to promote renewable energy in farming, reduce electricity costs, and enhance productivity through sustainable practices.

A Kisan loans target of Rs 25,000 crore was also established, along with initiatives to encourage natural farming techniques. Rural development was prioritized with Rs 40,000 crore allocated for comprehensive rural infrastructure improvements.

The G Ram G scheme received Rs 10,428 crore for Gram Panchayat advancement, while Rs 9,000 crore was designated for the PM Janman scheme, aiding tribal and underprivileged communities.

Additionally, the Jal Jeevan Mission was allocated Rs 4,454 crore to enhance piped drinking water access for households.

The infrastructure sector benefited from significant investments, including Rs 12,690 crore for road repairs and connectivity upgrades in both rural and urban areas.

Housing initiatives under the PM Awas Yojana received Rs 6,850 crore, with urban development surpassing Rs 21,561 crore, including Rs 3,600 crore earmarked for preparations for the upcoming 'Simhastha Mahaparva'. This is supported by Rs 13,851 crore to facilitate the event and ongoing works on the six-lane Indore-Ujjain Highway.

The energy sector saw enhancements with a budget provision of Rs 34,650 million and the establishment of a 604 megawatt power unit.

The state’s Space Policy has been implemented, with plans for 48 industrial parks in development, and a special package introduced to boost industrial growth in Bundelkhand.

Telecom manufacturing initiatives have launched in Gwalior.

Education and youth development initiatives include free tetra pack milk for students up to Class eight in government schools to improve nutrition and attendance.

Provisions of Rs 530 crore were set for the PM Shri Yojana, alongside Rs 800 crore allocated for sports and training infrastructure, with plans to construct hostels for working women.

The Devi Ahilyabai Lok development project has commenced, with Rs 793 crore allocated for the Dharti Aba Yojana and Rs 1,335 crore for labor welfare.

Environmental conservation efforts received Rs 6,151 crore, while religious and cultural activities secured Rs 2,055 crore, and Rs 50 crore was allocated for the Mukhya Mantri Teerth Darshan Yojana aimed at supporting senior citizens’ pilgrimages.

During the presentation, opposition Congress MLAs briefly disrupted the proceedings, entering the House with placards and empty piggy banks to protest the lack of an increase in legislators' funds, creating a momentary disturbance.

This budget illustrates the government's vision for an inclusive, sustainable, and self-reliant future for Madhya Pradesh, balancing welfare commitments with long-term developmental objectives amidst global economic challenges.