Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, Diya Kumari, presented the state’s 2025-26 budget on February 19, with an emphasis on infrastructure development, green energy, and employment generation. The budget, valued at ₹394.25 crore, marks a decisive step towards transforming Rajasthan into a sustainable and self-reliant state.
The most prominent aspect of the budget is the allocation for infrastructure development, with over ₹5,000 crore earmarked for crucial state highways, bypass roads, flyovers, and rail overbridges (ROBs) across Rajasthan. The state government has also committed ₹60,000 crore towards the development of nine greenfield expressways, a move that will significantly boost connectivity within the state and to neighbouring regions. This ambitious plan aligns with the state’s vision of becoming an industrial hub, while also addressing traffic congestion in urban areas.
In a bid to modernise the state’s capital, Jaipur, a substantial ₹12,000 crore has been allocated for metro expansion, which will extend from Sitapura Industrial Area to Ambawari and Vidhyadhar Nagar, with further plans for connecting Jagatpura and Vaishali Nagar. These metro projects are expected to ease the city’s transport woes and contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainable urban development. Rajasthan’s focus on environmental conservation is equally commendable. The budget includes a robust green growth policy, aimed at fostering eco-friendly industries and infrastructure. ₹575 crore has been set aside for roadworks in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, and Ajmer, while another ₹100 crore has been allocated for the development of a tribal tourism circuit, promoting both cultural heritage and eco-tourism. Additionally, the state plans to plant 10 crore trees, contributing to biodiversity and mitigating the impact of climate change.
The government’s green initiative also extends to the energy sector, where significant provisions have been made for the installation of solar plants. Diya Kumari announced a programme to provide free solar plants to households, along with 150 free electricity units per month. This is a part of Rajasthan’s ongoing effort to transition to renewable energy and encourage sustainable living practices among its residents. On the employment front, the state government has pledged to recruit 1.25 lakh individuals across various departments and state undertakings. This bold move is expected to provide much-needed employment opportunities, especially for the youth, in a state where job creation has become a focal point of government policy.
In addition, Rajasthan has introduced several measures to enhance industrial growth, including a ‘Single Window – One Stop Shop’ for seamless online permissions. This initiative will streamline the process for entrepreneurs and facilitate the establishment of industries within the state. Key proposals also include the creation of parks dedicated to toys, stone, ceramics, and pharmaceuticals in various parts of Rajasthan, including Kota, Nimbahera, Bundi, and Sanganer. The tourism sector will also see significant investments, with ₹975 crore allocated for the development of tourism infrastructure. The state government plans to enhance the appeal of Rajasthan as a heritage and cultural destination, with ten sites earmarked as iconic tourist destinations. Furthermore, Rajasthan will host the IIFA Awards in Jaipur in March 2025, drawing international attention to the state’s tourism potential.
In the education sector, the state government’s focus on accessibility and quality is evident. Provisions for the establishment of new ITIs, polytechnic colleges, and Sainik schools aim to improve educational opportunities for students across the state, especially in underserved regions. The proposal to install CCTV cameras in 15,000 schools and introduce Atal Tinkering Labs in 1,500 schools will further enhance the learning environment.
The budget also prioritises agricultural sustainability, with subsidies for nano urea and nano DAP for wheat farmers. The government’s plan to provide a ₹150 per quintal bonus over the Minimum Support Price (MSP) reflects its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector.
In line with the government’s vision for a sustainable future, the Rajasthan budget places a premium on climate change adaptation, green technologies, and sustainable water practices. A Green Growth Credit policy will encourage industries to adopt eco-friendly practices, while the creation of a Centre of Excellence for climate change reflects the state’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges. Overall, the Rajasthan 2025-26 budget marks a pivotal step towards building a more resilient, eco-friendly, and prosperous state. The proposals outlined by Diya Kumari not only focus on infrastructure and employment but also prioritise sustainability and social welfare, ensuring that Rajasthan’s growth is inclusive, green, and equitable.
Rajasthan Allocates Rs 60,000 Crore for Expressways in New Budget
