The Uttar Pradesh state budget for 2026-27, presented in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, places special emphasis on strengthening the state’s basic or primary education system.
The budget proposals clearly indicate that the government is moving towards comprehensive reforms in the structure of primary and upper primary education.
An unprecedented allocation of Rs 77,622 crore has been proposed for basic education. The funds will be used to strengthen the infrastructure of council-run schools, improve academic quality, and ensure the holistic development of students. Education Department officials believe these provisions will give new momentum to the state’s primary education system.
The most significant provision targets all students in council schools from Classes 1 to 8. An amount of Rs 650 crore has been proposed under the scheme to provide free uniforms, school bags, shoes, socks, and stationery. The objective is to ensure that no child is deprived of education due to lack of resources.
In addition, the government is working on a plan to establish two Chief Minister Model Composite Schools in every district. A total of 150 such schools are proposed across the state’s 75 districts, which will be equipped with modern facilities, digital classrooms, and advanced academic resources. There is also a proposal to set up one Chief Minister Abhyuday School in each district so that rural and urban students receive education of equal quality.
With a focus on girls’ education, Rs 580 crore has been allocated to establish new residential schools in development blocks where Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas are not available. This initiative will provide girls from remote areas with access to safe and quality education.
The budget has made special provisions for teachers and staff. A cashless medical facility is proposed for teachers, non-teaching staff, and contractual as well as honorarium-based personnel of council schools. An amount of Rs 358 crore has been proposed for this, ensuring health security for education workers.
Under the Samagra Shiksha scheme, Rs 300 crore has been allocated to develop all primary schools into smart schools. Preparations are underway to connect children with new technology through digital boards, ICT equipment, and modern teaching materials.
Additionally, Rs 300 crore has been proposed for the maintenance and strengthening of aided non-government schools found to be substandard after security audits.
Responding to the budget announcements, state Basic Education Minister Sandeep Singh said that the government has given top priority to basic education in this budget.
According to the minister, the budget is not just a financial allocation, but a clear commitment to deliver quality, equal, and value-based education to every child. He said that ensuring social justice and equal opportunity through education is the government’s commitment, and the presented budget is a decisive step in that direction.