52 lakh crore. The budget aims to address the needs of various segments, particularly farmers, youth, and government employees. The primary focus remains on infrastructure development, integrating modern technology in agriculture, and enhancing the 'Ease of Doing Business' through administrative reforms. 9% increase from the previous year.
Agriculture and Farmer Welfare: Loans and Modernization
To strengthen the agricultural sector, the government has set a target of distributing ₹25,000 crore in interest-free short-term loans, benefiting approximately 35 lakh farmers. 5 lakh farmers will receive free high-quality seeds for pulses and oilseeds. An allocation of ₹11,300 crore has been made for expanding irrigation facilities, including the installation of drip and sprinkler systems across 3 lakh hectares. To promote solar energy, ₹1,500 crore has been allocated for 50,000 new solar pump plants. Also, a subsidy of ₹228 crore has been announced for 20,000 kilometers of fencing to protect crops from stray animals.
Employees and Pensioners: 8th Pay Commission and Salary Package
In a significant move for state employees and pensioners, the government announced the formation of a high-level committee to implement the recommendations of the 8th Pay Commission. This committee will also address pay anomalies and promotion issues. A special 'Salary Account Package' has been introduced, offering digital banking, concessional loans, and comprehensive insurance coverage. These benefits will be extended to pensioners up to the age of 70. On top of that, state officials will receive international-standard training to enhance their operational efficiency.
Infrastructure and Industrial Growth: ₹1 Lakh Crore Investment
The effective capital expenditure for the state is estimated to exceed ₹1 lakh crore. Over ₹51,000 crore will be invested in basic amenities such as electricity, roads, and water. For the industrial sector, a 'One Application, One Digital Track' system will be implemented to provide all departmental approvals in one place. The textile industry will receive capital and payroll subsidies. Notably, the service sector will now also benefit under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS), while in the transport sector, a 50% discount on registration tax has been announced for private vehicles brought from other states.
Environment and Governance: Aravali Conservation and E-Registration
Under the 'Prithvi Project', ₹1500 crore will be spent on environmental conservation, with a target to plant 10 crore saplings next year. The government plans to rejuvenate 4,000 hectares of degraded land in the Aravali range. In terms of governance, all 106 sub-registrar offices will be developed as 'Model Offices', and an e-registration system will be launched. This will allow citizens to register property from their homes. To combat rising cybercrimes, an R4C center will be established to protect citizens from digital frauds.
Political Reaction and Analysis
The opposition has reacted sharply to the budget. Congress General Secretary and former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot termed the budget disappointing, stating that the government's announcements failed to meet public expectations. Speaking to reporters outside the assembly, he remarked that with half the government's term over, the public has lost hope despite repeated promises. According to analysts, the budget attempts to balance fiscal deficit management with accelerated growth. The state is also initiating a 'Switching of State Government Securities' process to restructure old debts and reduce the financial burden.
Conclusion
The Rajasthan Budget 2026 provides a comprehensive roadmap for modernizing the state's economic structure and empowering the rural economy. While efforts have been made to link farmers with financial aid and technology, the government has also assured consideration of long-pending employee demands. The successful implementation of these schemes on the ground will be crucial in determining the state's future economic trajectory.