Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Unveils ₹2.90 Lakh Cr Budget for 2025-26

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has presented the state budget for the financial year 2025-26, setting the total expenditure at ₹2.90 lakh crore. This budget, which was tabled on February 17, 2025, focuses on agriculture, irrigation, and rural development, aiming to strengthen the state’s economy by prioritizing key sectors. This is the first full-fledged budget by the BJP-led government since it came to power last year. The allocation sees a significant rise compared to the 2024-25 budget of ₹2.65 lakh crore, indicating the state’s continued commitment to economic growth.

How Much Has Been Allocated to Agriculture and Rural Development?

Agriculture remains a major focus in the 2025-26 budget, with an allocation of ₹37,838 crore to agriculture and allied activities. This marks a 12% increase from last year’s ₹33,919 crore, reflecting the government’s efforts to boost farm productivity. Given that nearly 48% of Odisha’s workforce is engaged in agriculture and 80% of the population lives in rural areas, the increased budget aims to directly impact the lives of farmers.

• CM Kisan Yojana: ₹2,020 crore has been earmarked for this scheme to provide financial assistance to farmers. The goal is to support agricultural productivity and ensure income stability.
• Shree Anna Abhiyan: ₹600 crore has been allocated to promote millet cultivation, supporting the state’s efforts in crop diversification and nutrition security.

What Are the Key Announcements for Irrigation and Infrastructure?

To address water availability for farming, the Odisha government has proposed new schemes focused on irrigation expansion. Though specific financial details of these projects have not been disclosed, the budget highlights the need to improve irrigation infrastructure, ensuring that agricultural productivity is not hindered due to water shortages. Investments in infrastructure development will also play a key role in supporting sustainable farming and economic growth.

How Will Dairy Farmers Benefit from This Budget?

Apart from agriculture and irrigation, the Odisha government has introduced initiatives to support dairy farmers. Under the ‘Mukhyamantri Kamdhenu Yojana,’ ₹164 crore has been allocated to increase milk production and boost the dairy sector. This move aims to strengthen the rural economy by providing necessary financial and infrastructural support to dairy farmers.

Comparing the 2025-26 Budget with the Previous Year

The Odisha government had presented a budget of ₹2.65 lakh crore in the 2024-25 fiscal year, with ₹33,919 crore allocated for agriculture and allied sectors. The 2025-26 budget shows a clear rise in overall spending, particularly in agriculture and rural development, demonstrating the state’s growing focus on strengthening its economy.

With this budget, the Odisha government aims to accelerate economic development while ensuring that the agricultural and rural sectors receive adequate support. The increased allocation reflects a long-term strategy to enhance the state’s economic resilience and uplift the rural population.

Summary of the news