UP Govt Allocates Rs 8.08 Lakh Cr In Budget 2026, Prioritising Infrastructure & Social Welfare

Lucknow, Feb 21 (KNN) The Uttar Pradesh government presented its fiscal year 2026 budget on Thursday, allocating Rs 8.08 lakh crore across key sectors with a significant emphasis on infrastructure development and social welfare. 

Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Khanna introduced the budget in the state assembly, outlining substantial investments in education, healthcare, and agricultural development.

Infrastructure development emerged as the primary focus, receiving the largest share of Rs 1.79 lakh crore, representing 22 percent of the total budget. 

This allocation encompasses multiple sectors, including Rs 61,070 crore for energy infrastructure, Rs 21,340 crore for irrigation projects, Rs 24,000 crore for industrial development, Rs 25,308 crore for urban development initiatives, Rs 7,403 crore for housing and urban planning, and Rs 3,152 crore for civil aviation improvements.

The education sector secured the second-largest allocation with Rs 1,06,360 crore, constituting 13 percent of the budget. 

This investment aims to strengthen primary and higher education systems, enhance school infrastructure, and improve educational quality. 

The government statement highlighted Uttar Pradesh's position as a leading state in educational expenditure.

Healthcare received significant attention with an allocation of Rs 50,550 crore, accounting for 6 percent of the budget. 

A notable initiative includes the expansion of the Chief Minister Jan Arogya Abhiyan, which will now provide free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh for various government personnel, including home guards, PRD personnel, village watchmen, and education workers.

The agricultural and rural development sectors received Rs 89,353 crore, representing 11 percent of the budget. 

This comprehensive allocation covers various sub sectors including agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairy, fisheries, cooperatives, rural development, Panchayati Raj, the Namami Gange project, and rural water supply. 

The budget also includes Rs 28,478.34 crore for new expenditure categories.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised the budget's alignment with the principle of 'Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah' from Sanatan culture, focusing on uplifting the poor, farmers, youth, and women. 

The state's economic trajectory shows promising growth, with GDP expected to rise from Rs 12.89 lakh crore in 2017-18 to Rs 27.51 lakh crore in 2024-25.

(KNN Bureau)