It is important to note that before the 2016-17 budget, Uttarakhand Finance Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat presented one of his hallmark plans to achieve economic success, boost infrastructure and better the lives of the people in the state. A total expenditure of ₹26,232 crore has been allocated in the budget, a 12.5% increase compared to the last year.

Building roads, bridges, and rural digital connectivity accounted for a large share of the budget. The government earmarked ₹1,500 crore for the construction and upkeep of roads, to improve reach and increase economic activities in backward areas. Apart from this, ₹500 crore has been allocated for development of smart cities, prioritising Dehradun and Haridwar.

Agriculture and rural development were another focus area, with ₹2,000 crore set aside to support farmers and agricultural productivity. This entailed fertilizer, seed and machinery subsidies and introduction of new irrigation projects to ensure water security.

₹2,500 crore and ₹1,800 crore were earmarked to education and health, respectively. The first half focuses on school infrastructure, teacher training, and quality in schools for better education while primary health centres and better medical facilities in rural areas accounted for healthcare.

There was a boost to tourism, which is the life blood for Uttarakhand as the state had ₹500 crore for developing tourist infrastructure and eco-tourism. The state’s rich natural and cultural heritage was also offered a hand with budget provisions.

Broadly, the 2016-17 budget for Uttarakhand was formulated to overcome the developmental hurdles of the state and to usher in gradual economic development and better living standards.