Rajasthan Chief Minister Unveils Budget as Mid-Term Report Card Ahead of Elections
With urban and rural body elections approaching, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Wednesday positioned the 2026–27 state Budget as a mid-term report card for his government and a political roadmap aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Viksit Bharat vision. Addressing a press conference after the Budget presentation in the Assembly, Sharma described the document as aiming for holistic and sustainable development, calling it a duty towards the 8 crore people of Rajasthan.
Defending Education Funding and Phased Approach
In response to Opposition criticism over the Rs 550 crore allocation for repair and maintenance of 2,500 state government schools—against an estimated requirement of nearly Rs 20,000 crore for more than 41,000 schools—Sharma defended the government's phased funding strategy. He emphasized that school infrastructure strengthening cannot be completed in a single Budget, labeling it a continuous commitment. Sharma highlighted that education spending has increased by 35% compared to the 2023–24 period, underscoring the administration's focus on gradual improvements.
Historic Water Project for Shekhawati Region
In a key regional announcement, Sharma revealed that the government has proposed Rs 32,000 crore worth of works to bring Yamuna water to the Shekhawati region. He described water security as central to Rajasthan's future, calling the project a historic step. This move is viewed as politically significant in districts like Sikar, Churu, and Jhunjhunu, where the BJP lost all Lok Sabha seats in the 2024 elections, potentially aiming to regain voter trust through infrastructure development.
Youth Employment Initiatives and Recruitment Reforms
On the front of youth employment, Sharma stated that the state has already provided over 1 lakh government jobs, with recruitment for an additional 1.54 lakh posts currently underway. He reiterated the promise of delivering 4 lakh jobs in total. To address public concerns over paper leak controversies, Sharma announced the proposed Rajasthan State Testing Agency (RSTA), which will conduct transparent, technology-driven recruitment examinations. This initiative is positioned as a response to public anger and an assurance to job aspirants of fair hiring practices.
Strategic Messaging Ahead of Local Body Polls
The government's messaging around the Budget strategically combines regional outreach, infrastructure expansion, youth employment, and phased social sector spending. As local body elections near, this approach seeks to consolidate the development narrative, emphasizing progress in key areas to appeal to voters. The Budget serves not only as a financial plan but also as a tool for political positioning, aligning state efforts with national goals under the Viksit Bharat framework.
