Paromita Das
A Budget for the Future
Haryana’s political and economic landscape took a major step forward as Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini presented his maiden Budget for the state, allocating a record-breaking ₹2.05 lakh crore for the financial year 2025-26. This marks a 13.7% increase from the ₹1.89 lakh crore Budget presented by former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar last year.
Positioned as a “futuristic” Budget, it reflects Haryana’s aspirations to become a leader in technology, education, sustainability, and economic growth. The introduction of new initiatives such as the Department of Future, “Make in Haryana,” and the Haryana Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission signals a strategic shift toward a technology-driven economy. This Budget not only aims at industrial progress but also ensures social welfare and economic inclusivity, making it a well-balanced approach to governance.
Innovation and Technological Advancements
A key highlight of the Budget is its emphasis on technology and innovation. The establishment of a Department of Future reflects the government’s commitment to exploring emerging technologies and their applications. In addition, the Haryana Artificial Intelligence Mission, with hubs in Gurugram and Panchkula, aims to position Haryana as a leader in AI-driven innovation and industrial digitalization.
The launch of “Make in Haryana”, inspired by the national “Make in India” initiative, further highlights the government’s focus on boosting local industries, attracting investments, and creating employment opportunities. With Haryana already being a major industrial hub, this initiative is expected to strengthen the manufacturing sector and expand the state’s economic footprint in global markets.
Education and Skill Development: Empowering the Youth
Recognizing that education and skill development are essential for long-term progress, the Budget introduces several initiatives aimed at enhancing learning opportunities for students. The government plans to set up model Sanskriti schools every 10 km, ensuring access to quality education across all districts.
The introduction of the Kalpana Chawla Scholarship, named after the renowned astronaut, will provide financial assistance to meritorious students, encouraging academic excellence and scientific pursuits. Additionally, French language studies will now be introduced from Class III in government schools, fostering global exposure and multilingual proficiency among young learners.
Further strengthening higher education, the Budget proposes the establishment of model colleges in every district and e-libraries in all model schools, ensuring access to digital learning resources for students across Haryana. These initiatives will equip the youth with modern skills and prepare them for global opportunities.
Tackling Drug Abuse and Strengthening Social Welfare
A major concern in Haryana has been the rising problem of drug abuse, particularly among the youth. To combat this issue, the Substance Abuse Narcotics Knowledge Awareness and Liberation Program (SANKALP) Authority has been launched with an initial allocation of ₹10 crore.
This initiative will focus on awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs, and stricter enforcement to curb the spread of narcotics. By investing in prevention and recovery programs, the government aims to create a healthier and safer society for future generations.
Additionally, the Budget introduces skill-based training programs such as the Mukhyamantri Kaushal Padak Samman Vijayta and Mukhyamantri Yuva Kaushal Samman Yojana, which aim to recognize and reward vocational excellence. These initiatives will encourage skill development and employment generation, aligning with Haryana’s vision to become a hub for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.
Agriculture, Water Conservation, and Sustainable Development
Haryana’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, and this Budget introduces progressive measures to ensure sustainability and economic security for farmers. To address water scarcity, the government has increased the subsidy under the Mera Pani Meri Virasat Yojana from ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 per acre for farmers opting out of water-intensive paddy cultivation. This initiative aims to promote crop diversification and conserve groundwater resources, ensuring a more sustainable agricultural model.
The Budget also proposes the establishment of a horticulture research center in Palwal and a flower market in Gurugram, aiming to diversify agricultural income sources and promote modern farming techniques. By integrating scientific advancements into farming practices, Haryana is working towards a more resilient and profitable agricultural sector.
Economic Growth and Fiscal Responsibility
One of the most ambitious goals outlined in the Budget is Mission Haryana – 2047, which aims to elevate the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) to $1 trillion by 2047. With an initial allocation of ₹5 crore, this initiative lays the groundwork for long-term economic expansion and strategic planning.
Haryana’s economic indicators already show significant progress. The state’s GSDP has grown from ₹4.37 lakh crore in 2014-15 to ₹12.13 lakh crore in 2024-25, with an average growth rate of 10.8%. Meanwhile, per capita income has surged from ₹1,47,382 in 2014-15 to ₹3,53,182 in 2024-25, reflecting a strong upward economic trajectory.
Despite concerns about rising debt, Chief Minister Saini reassured that Haryana’s financial health remains stable, with debt levels within prescribed fiscal limits. His remarks counter opposition narratives questioning fiscal management, reinforcing confidence in the state’s economic resilience.
Challenges Ahead: Implementation and Execution
While the Budget presents a strong vision for Haryana’s future, its success will depend on effective implementation. Challenges such as youth unemployment, industrial competition, and infrastructural bottlenecks must be tackled proactively.
The success of the Make in Haryana initiative will depend on attracting investments and fostering an environment conducive to business growth. Haryana’s industrial hubs like Gurugram and Faridabad face stiff competition from Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka. The state must ensure ease of doing business, robust infrastructure, and policy stability to make Haryana an investment-friendly destination.
Additionally, while the SANKALP Authority is a welcome step in tackling drug abuse, long-term success will require a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, education, rehabilitation, and community engagement.
A Transformative Budget for a New Haryana
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s maiden Budget sets the stage for a new era of progress in Haryana. With a bold vision for technology, education, economic growth, and sustainability, this Budget aims to transform Haryana into a powerhouse of innovation and development.
By integrating AI-driven initiatives, skill development programs, sustainable farming incentives, and economic reforms, the government is paving the way for a prosperous future. However, effective execution and policy stability will be crucial in turning this ambitious vision into reality.
As Haryana moves forward, this Budget stands as a blueprint for inclusive and sustainable growth, ensuring that the state remains a key driver in Bharat’s journey towards becoming a $5 trillion economy. The coming years will determine the success of this visionary plan, shaping the future of Haryana and its role in India’s economic landscape.
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