Uttar Pradesh Allocates 13 Per Cent Budget For Education; Plans For AI And Solar Cities, Cyber Security Park

The Uttar Pradesh Budget 2025-26, with a total outlay of Rs 8,08,736 crore, was presented by Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna in the State Assembly on 20 February, as reported by The Economic Times.

This year’s budget, which reflects a 9.8 per cent increase from the previous fiscal year, prioritises research, development, information technology, and infrastructure expansion.

A significant portion of the budget has been allocated to key sectors, with 22 per cent earmarked for developmental initiatives, 13 per cent for education, 11 per cent for agriculture and allied services, and 6 per cent for healthcare. 

Stressing the importance of technological advancements, the government has announced plans to develop an Artificial Intelligence City and establish a Cyber Security Research Park, marking a major step toward digital transformation in the state.

Infrastructure development remains a key focus, with the government approving the construction of four new expressways to improve connectivity across the state. Additionally, 58 municipalities will be transformed into smart cities, enhancing urban infrastructure and service delivery. 

The budget also includes provisions for a solar city in Ayodhya and the establishment of eight data centre parks, reinforcing Uttar Pradesh’s position as a growing hub for digital and technological industries.

The budget places a strong emphasis on social welfare, introducing various initiatives to support students, farmers, and underprivileged communities. 

Scooters will be provided to meritorious students, and under the Ujjwala Scheme, eligible families will receive two free LPG cylinders annually. For farmers, the government has allocated Rs 1,050 crore for the Farmer Welfare Fund, ensuring financial assistance in cases of accidental death or disability. 

In a bid to support women and vulnerable groups, Rs 2,980 crore has been set aside for pensions under the Destitute Women Pension Scheme, while Rs 700 crore has been allocated for the Chief Minister Kanya Sumangala Scheme, which promotes the education and welfare of girl children. 

Additionally, Rs 1,424 crore has been earmarked for the Disabled Maintenance Grant Scheme, and Rs 900 crore has been allotted for pre-and post-10th scholarships for general category students.

Education and technology continue to be major priorities, with Rs 24 crore allocated for providing laptops and smartphones to revenue personnel for online work. 

Schools and polytechnic institutions will witness upgrades in smart classrooms and laboratories, ensuring students receive education aligned with modern technological advancements.

The budget also outlines measures to enhance workers’ welfare and alleviate poverty. The Uttar Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board will develop labour bases at district headquarters, equipping them with canteens, drinking water, and sanitation facilities.

In an effort to eliminate poverty, the government launched the ‘Zero Poverty Abhiyan’ on 2 October 2024, which aims to identify the poorest families in each Gram Panchayat and raise their annual income to at least Rs 1.25 lakh.