On March 9, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, who also oversees the finance portfolio, presented the state budget characterized by a comprehensive framework known as ‘SANTULAN,’ which translates to ‘balance’ in English. The budget reflects a commitment to equitable growth across various sectors and is structured around eight foundational principles that collectively inform the government’s development strategy.

SANTULAN Framework Explained

The SANTULAN framework assigns each letter of the word to a specific developmental pillar. ‘S’ stands for Samaveshi Vikas (Inclusive Development), ‘A’ represents Atmanirbhar Uttarakhand (Self-reliant Uttarakhand), ‘N’ indicates Nayi Soch (New Thinking), ‘T’ symbolizes Tez Vikas (Rapid Development), ‘U’ focuses on urban and rural development, ‘L’ signifies Lok Sahbhagita (Public Participation), ‘A’ highlights Arthik Shakti (Economic Strength), and ‘N’ represents Nyayapurn Vyavastha (Just Governance). This structured approach aims to ensure coverage of all social and economic dimensions in the budget allocations.

Inclusive Development Initiatives

Under the principle of Inclusive Development, the government earmarked significant funds for various welfare programs. Allocations include Rs 1327.73 crore for social security pension schemes, Rs 600 crore for the Atal Ayushman Uttarakhand health initiative, and Rs 598.33 crore for the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 schemes. The budget also stipulates Rs 149.45 crore for the PM Poshan Mission and additional provisions for housing grants, child and women’s development, and nutrition schemes.

Emphasis on Self-reliance

The Self-reliant Uttarakhand principle focuses on agriculture, local entrepreneurship, and industry. Allocations in this area include Rs 42 crore for animal husbandry, Rs 39.90 crore for the Trout Promotion Scheme, and Rs 30.70 crore to support high-value fruit crops such as kiwi and dragon fruit. Funds are also set aside to bolster the MSME sector, tourism initiatives, and infrastructure projects, including eco-tourism developments.

Fostering Innovation and New Thinking

The New Thinking pillar promotes advancements in education and technology, with Rs 28 crore allocated for Sanskrit schools and Rs 65 crore for enhancing the State Data Centre. Initiatives to support innovation include funds for e-libraries in government colleges, scholarships in education sectors, and various tech-oriented projects aimed at digital transformation.

Investment in Infrastructure

Significant investment is directed towards infrastructure under the Rapid Development principle, with Rs 1050 crore allocated to capital works following the PM Gram Sadak Yojana. Additional funding includes Rs 400 crore for initiatives aimed at creating pothole-free roads. This financial commitment supports ongoing efforts to enhance road, air, and urban infrastructure across the state.

Public Participation in Governance

Public Participation initiatives are designed to strengthen community engagement and governance. The budget allocates Rs 25 crore for enhancing IT infrastructure and aims to further develop the State Data Centre. Moreover, funds are set aside for projects that facilitate public engagement in governance processes, ensuring that citizen voices are integrated into development strategies.

Prioritizing Economic Strength and Just Governance

Economic strength is a focal area in the budget, particularly with multi-crore allocations aimed at ambitious infrastructure projects and support for key sectors. The Just Governance principle underscores the government’s commitment to law enforcement and judicial processes, with allocations for police housing, judicial training, and special courts for sensitive cases. These measures collectively aim to fortify legal and institutional frameworks within the state.

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