RAIPUR, Chhattisgarh, India (AI Reporter/News): In a groundbreaking move, Chhattisgarh’s Finance Minister OP Choudhary has unveiled the annual budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on Feb 9, 2024, charting a visionary path towards digital innovation and smart governance.
With an extensive budget of Rs 1 lakh 47 thousand 500 crore, a notable Rs 266 crore (2.66 billion) (As of February 12, 2024, 266 Crore in Indian Rupees is approximately equal to 3.4 billion USD) is specifically allocated to infuse cutting-edge information technology and Artificial Intelligence AI data analytics across all governmental departments.
The government said that this strategic investment not only marks a significant shift towards efficient and transparent governance but also positions Chhattisgarh as a frontrunner in India’s adoption of advanced technologies within state administration, heralding a new era of intelligent governance in the 10th largest state by area in India.
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A Vision for the Future
The budget presentation set the stage with a vision of transforming Chhattisgarh into a developed state through a decade-long plan anchored in ten foundational pillars. The first pillar underscores the importance of knowledge and education as catalysts for economic development, emphasizing support for the underprivileged, youth, women, and agricultural communities. Drawing inspiration from Nelson Mandela, Choudhary highlighted the critical role of education quality and integrity in national prosperity.
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10 Fundamental Strategical Pillars
- Focus of Economic Development : Gareeb, Yuva, Anndata & Naari (GYAN)
- Rapid Economic Growth through Technology driven Reforms Governance
- Maximum capital expenditure
- Optimum utilization of Natural Resources
- Emphasis on new possibilities of service sector of the economy
- Ensuring private investment
- Focus on Bastar-Surguja
- Decentralized Development Pockets (DDP)
- Promoting Chhattisgarhi Culture
- Importance of Implementation
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Establishing the Chhattisgarh Center for Smart Governance
The second pillar, and the focal point of this year’s budget, is the acceleration of economic growth through technology-based reforms and improved governance. Finance Minister announced the establishment of the Chhattisgarh Center for Smart Governance as a testament to the state’s commitment to integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, and digital technology into its administrative functions. The second pillar, and the focal point of this year’s budget, is the acceleration of economic growth through technology-based reforms and improved governance.
This initiative aims to spearhead the adoption of smart governance practices, ensuring their successful implementation throughout the state’s administrative machinery. The center will serve as a hub for innovation, focusing on the deployment of modern software and hardware solutions that promise to streamline governmental processes and enhance service delivery.
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Investment in Technology: A Move Towards Transparency
The mammoth budgetary allocation for IT infrastructure underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and good governance. This investment is geared towards acquiring cutting-edge equipment and software, enabling all government departments to function more efficiently and transparently. By embracing technology at this scale, Chhattisgarh is setting a precedent for other states to follow, showcasing how digital tools can revolutionize governance.
The substantial investment in AI and data analytics by Chhattisgarh demonstrates the state’s dedication to utilizing advanced technology for the betterment of public services.
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Technology as a Catalyst for Growth
Choudhary announced the establishment of the Chhattisgarh Center for Smart Governance as a testament to the state’s commitment to integrating AI, data analytics, and digital technology into its administrative functions. A substantial multi-billion allocation has been earmarked to foster digital technology across various departments, signaling a new era of smart governance in Chhattisgarh.
Economic Growth Through Technology
The Finance Minister underscored the critical role of technology-based reforms in achieving economic milestones. The strategic use of IT is not just about improving governance; it’s about laying the foundation for substantial economic growth.
The government’s vision includes reaching a Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Rs 5 lakh crore in the next five years, setting the stage for an ambitious goal of Rs 10 lakh crore in economic output.
This growth will be fueled by the efficiencies and innovations brought about by widespread digitalization.
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A Vision for 2047: Developed Chhattisgarh
In presenting a paperless budget, a first for the state, Finance Minister Choudhary not only demonstrated a commitment to environmental sustainability but also to pioneering change. He expressed gratitude to the people of Chhattisgarh, emphasizing that the journey towards making Chhattisgarh a developed state by 2047, when India will celebrate 100 years of independence, is a collective effort. This vision encompasses a future where technology, economic growth, and social equity converge to create a prosperous state.
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Beyond Technology: A Holistic Development Approach
Further pillars detail Choudhary’s vision for a holistic development model, ranging from increased capital expenditure and natural resource management to fostering the service sector, encouraging private investment, and promoting cultural heritage. Notably, the budget proposes a 20% increase in capital expenditure, signifying a strong push towards infrastructural and economic development.
Additionally, initiatives like the establishment of tourism circuits, IT hubs, and centers of excellence in various districts underscore the government’s focus on diversified and sustainable growth.
Chhattisgarh Witnesses Robust Economic Growth in FY 2023-24
In an impressive display of economic resilience, Chhattisgarh has reported a robust growth in its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) for the fiscal year 2023-24. The state’s economy has seen a significant upturn, with GSDP growth at constant prices increasing by 6.56%, from Rs.3,02,118 Crores in FY 2022-23 to Rs.3,21,945 Crores in the current fiscal year.
Moreover, the GSDP growth at current prices is estimated to surge by 8.93%, reaching a total of Rs.5,05,887 Crores in FY 2023-24. This figure reflects the nominal growth rate and includes the impact of inflation on the state’s economic expansion.
The remarkable economic performance of Chhattisgarh is attributed to a mix of proactive economic policies, strategic investments in key sectors, and a focus on sustainable development. The state has managed to create a conducive environment for growth, attracting investments and fostering an atmosphere of innovation and entrepreneurship.
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