Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], March 3 (ANI): Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao on Monday hailed the Chhatisgarh Budget 2025-26 and said the budget has been prepared to double the pace of development projects under the 'double-engine' government in the state.

On the state Budget 2025-26, Sao told ANI, 'This budget is for the development of Viksit Chhattisgarh... This budget has been prepared to double the pace of development under the double-engine government.'

Meanwhile, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister and Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel slammed the Chhattisgarh Budget 2025-26, stating there is no scheme for farmers and unemployment.

He also said that there was no mention of providing an LPG cylinder for Rs 500 guaranteed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On the state Budget 2025-26, Baghel told ANI, 'There is nothing new in this budget. There is no scheme for farmers, irrigation, unemployment and inflation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi guaranteed to provide LPG cylinders for Rs 500; there was no talk about this. Therefore, there is nothing new in this budget...'

Finance Minister O P Choudhary presented the 2nd budget of this government for the Financial Year 2025-26.

A major highlight of the Budget is the allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for the Krishak Unnati Yojana, aimed at boosting agricultural prosperity, alongside the allocation of Rs 8,500 crore for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) to upgrade rural housing.

Welfare schemes such as Mahatari Vandan Yojana and Mukhyamantri Khadyann Sahayata Yojana have also received substantial funding of Rs 5,500 crore and Rs 4,500 crore, respectively, reinforcing the government's dedication to empowering women and ensuring food security.

Additionally, Rs. 3,500 crore has been set aside to provide free electricity for agricultural pumps of up to 5 HP, easing the financial burden on farmers, as per the release.

Infrastructure development remains a key priority, with Rs 2,000 crore allocated for new road construction under the Public Works Department (PWD), marking a first in the state's history. Rural connectivity will be enhanced with Rs 845 crore sanctioned for village roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and Rs 500 crore earmarked to connect Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) habitations through the PM-JANMAN Sadak Nirman Yojana. (ANI)