The Gujarat Budget 2026 session has drawn attention not just for its fiscal allocations but also for the remarkable journey of the state’s finances over the decades. While the state now presents one of the most comprehensive budgets in its history, it’s fascinating to recall that Gujarat’s very first budget in 1960 was only ₹115 crore — a figure that reflects the humble beginnings of the newly formed state after it separated from Maharashtra earlier that year. This first budget was presented by Dr. Jivraj Mehta, who served as both the Chief Minister and Finance Minister, and included essential allocations like ₹3.87 crore for food and cereals, with a total expenditure balancing the limited resources of the time.
Over the years, Gujarat’s financial framework has evolved dramatically, mirroring the state’s rapid economic and infrastructural growth. From ₹115 crore in 1960 to multi-lakh crore budgets in recent years, the state’s fiscal plans now cover a wide range of sectors including infrastructure, education, agriculture, and social welfare, showcasing how governance priorities have expanded with the growing demands of citizens and industry. Today’s Gujarat budgets reflect not just numbers, but a broader vision for development and progress that continues to shape the state’s future.
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