Over Rs 57,759 crore earmarked for tribal welfare, with focus on education, healthcare, housing, food security and livelihood opportunities.
The true measure of development lies in how effectively it reaches the most vulnerable sections of society. In Chhattisgarh, where tribal communities are an integral part of the state’s identity, their social and economic empowerment is essential for inclusive growth. Recognising this responsibility, the state government under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has made a financial provision of over Rs 57,759 crore for 23 major schemes under the Scheduled Tribe Budget during 2024-25 to 2026-27.
This substantial investment reflects a comprehensive approach towards improving the living conditions of tribal families through education, healthcare, housing, agriculture, irrigation and infrastructure. The reported expenditure stood at Rs 22,116.34 crore in 2024-25 and Rs 23,942.38 crore in 2025-26, while Rs 11,701 crore had been spent in 2026-27 as of November 14, 2026.
Education remains a key priority, with investments in primary and higher secondary schools, Ashram schools, hostels and the Samagra Shiksha programme to expand educational opportunities for tribal children. Equally important are food security and women’s empowerment. The Chief Minister’s Food Assistance Scheme has received Rs 7,088.96 crore, while Rs 7,090.35 crore has been provided under the Mahatari Vandan Yojana to strengthen household security and women’s financial independence.
Housing and connectivity are also transforming remote tribal settlements. Provisions of Rs 2,799.62 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin and Rs 460.08 crore under PM-JANMAN housing are aimed at providing secure homes. Another Rs 1,055.58 crore has been provided for roads under PM-JANMAN, improving access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities.
Agriculture and rural livelihoods have received significant attention through Rs 8,095.67 crore under the Krishak Unnati Yojana and Rs 4,575.80 crore for free electricity to agricultural pumps up to five horsepower. Additionally, Rs 796.65 crore has been provided for minor irrigation and Rs 1,391.04 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission to strengthen irrigation and drinking water facilities. Healthcare access is being supported through a provision of Rs 1,463.05 crore under the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Ayushman Swasthya Yojana.
While these financial commitments are encouraging, their real success will depend on effective implementation and tangible improvements in people’s lives. Quality education, functioning healthcare facilities, reliable drinking water, permanent housing and sustainable livelihood opportunities must reach every eligible household. Equally important is protecting tribal culture, traditional knowledge, land rights and community identity.
As the nation celebrates Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, Chhattisgarh’s development initiatives underline the importance of combining economic progress with social justice. The ultimate objective must be to ensure that no tribal family remains deprived of basic facilities or opportunities because of geographical isolation.
The real success of development will be achieved when every tribal household enjoys dignity, security and equal opportunities. A stronger Chhattisgarh can only emerge when its most remote communities become equal partners in the journey of progress.
