AI at the Heart of Haryana's Future: CM Saini Unveils Six Visionary Budget Initiatives

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini presented an ambitious, technology-focused budget in the Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, unveiling six forward-looking initiatives designed to transform the state's economy and governance.

"Today's challenges require tomorrow's solutions," Saini told the Assembly. "We're planning not just for the next fiscal year, but for the next generation."

Department of the Future

In a novel move, Saini announced the creation of a 'Department of the Future' – a dedicated body that will anticipate economic and social challenges before they materialize. 

This department will monitor emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and robotics, assessing their impact on jobs and businesses. It will provide policy recommendations to other government departments, helping them build long-term resilience.

AI-Powered Governance Gets World Bank Backing

The CM announced the Haryana AI Mission, aimed at leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance public services.

"We've already secured Rs 474 crore in initial support from the World Bank," Saini revealed. The mission will establish AI hubs in Gurugram and Panchkula, training over 50,000 youth in emerging technologies.

Boosting the Startup Ecosystem

After consulting with 60 Haryana-based startup founders, the budget proposes enhancements to the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The government will encourage private investors to contribute Rs 2,000 crore to a Fund of Funds for startups, with a vision to make Haryana "the national hub for innovation." 

Fighting the Drug Menace

Addressing one of the state's pressing social issues, Saini announced SANKALP (Substance Abuse & Narcotics Knowledge, Awareness & Liberation Program Authority), allocating an initial Rs 10 crore to combat the growing drug problem.

The authority will work across departments to implement prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs alongside enforcement measures.

Curbing Illegal Migration

To address the growing exodus of youth taking dangerous illegal routes abroad, Saini announced plans to introduce a new Bill during the current session.

"Too many of our young people are risking their lives on the 'donkey route,' often ending up exploited," Saini said. The government will promote legal global employment through the Haryana Overseas Employment Cell.

Trillion-Dollar Economy Vision

Saini outlined "Mission Haryana-2047" – a task force charged with transforming Haryana into a trillion-dollar economy by India's centenary of independence.

"This isn't just about numbers – it's about creating 50 lakh new jobs," Saini declared, announcing an initial allocation of Rs 5 crore for proof-of-concept plans in select districts.

Opposition leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda cautiously supported the future focus but emphasized that "grand visions must be backed by ground implementation."

As the Assembly adjourned, legislators across party lines described it as "one of the most visionary budgets" in recent memory, though the true test will lie in implementation for Haryana's 2.9 crore residents.