Gujarat's Ambitious Budget: Development Agenda or Election Strategy?

In a move hailed as progressive by the ruling party, Gujarat Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai unveiled a Rs 4.08 lakh crore Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. Aimed at bolstering tourism, enhancing digital governance, and promoting regional growth, the Budget strives to position Gujarat at the forefront of development.

The Budget, unveiled by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, prioritizes public welfare without introducing new taxes. With 65% of the expenditure dedicated to developmental projects, the Budget rests on five pillars: social security, human resource development, infrastructure, economic growth, and green growth.

However, the opposition parties, including Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party, have condemned the Budget as election-focused and lacking in practical solutions for farmers, youth, and the state's common populace. They argue it demonstrates lofty aspirations for Gujarat, contradicting the immediate realities and needs of 2026-27.