THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, January 29: Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Thursday said that Jharkhand, having completed 25 years of statehood, now requires a strong, balanced and multi-dimensional budget that can shape the potential of this young state and empower every section of society.
Addressing the Abua Dishom Budget Seminar at the Jharkhand Secretariat, the Chief Minister stressed that the budget should reflect public aspirations, promote inclusive and sustainable development, and accelerate growth across regions and communities.
Budget Should Empower Every Section of Society
The Chief Minister said the state’s budget must be comprehensive and development-oriented, ensuring that no region or social group is left behind. Jharkhand, he said, is moving forward with improved management to make better use of its resources and capabilities.
He underlined that despite being a small and backward state, Jharkhand continues to make a significant contribution to the national economy, and the government is committed to strengthening this contribution through better planning and execution.
Budget Size Near ₹1 Lakh Crore, Focus on Revenue Generation
Soren said the upcoming state budget is expected to be around ₹1 lakh crore, with allocations likely to increase further in the coming years. In view of this, he emphasised the need to strengthen revenue generation so that development and welfare schemes do not suffer due to a lack of funds.
Public Participation Key to Better Budgeting
Stressing the importance of people’s involvement, the Chief Minister said the government has actively sought suggestions from the general public to make the budget more balanced and people-centric. According to him, meaningful public participation is essential for preparing a development-oriented budget that truly serves the state.
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Global Exposure to Shape State’s Development Vision
Referring to his recent visits to the World Economic Forum in Davos and London, the Chief Minister said these experiences provided valuable insights into global policies, work culture, economic systems and governance practices. He said the government would try to give a new direction to Jharkhand’s development by applying lessons learned from these international interactions.
Budget Must Address Aspirations of the New Generation
Soren said the younger generation is seeking new paths and opportunities beyond traditional systems, and the budget must respond to their evolving needs. He emphasised innovation and forward-looking planning to create opportunities for youth in line with modern demands.
Jharkhand Rich in Resources and Potential
The Chief Minister said Jharkhand has no shortage of natural or human resources. From water, forests and mineral wealth to entrepreneurs, farmers, athletes and a hardworking workforce, the state has immense potential across sectors. The government, he said, is focused on optimal utilisation of these strengths.
He added that targeted efforts are being made to strengthen education, health, agriculture, tourism, sports, industry, infrastructure and natural resource management. Work is underway to expand irrigation, improve health services, promote agricultural innovation and ensure conservation of land, water and forests.
Value Addition Key to Economic Growth
Highlighting Jharkhand’s natural wealth, Soren said the state is the largest producer of lac and a leading producer of Tussar silk. However, he stressed the need for value addition so that these resources generate greater economic benefits within the state instead of being utilised elsewhere.
Preserving Tribal Traditions
Calling Jharkhand a tribal-majority state, the Chief Minister said its rich tribal traditions and systems must be preserved and promoted alongside development. The government, he said, is continuously working to ensure that traditional systems move forward with dignity and respect.
Experts and Citizens’ Suggestions to Shape Budget
The Chief Minister said suggestions from experts and citizens across the country have been collected and are being carefully examined for inclusion in the budget. On the occasion, Swati Banka, Kishore Prasad Verma and Gopi Hansda were honoured with cash awards and certificates for their valuable contributions.
The seminar was attended by Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Development Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh, senior finance officials, members of the State Finance Commission, and experts from leading institutions across the country.