Yogi-Led UP Outpaces Maharashtra, Gujarat in Key Investment Metric, CAG Data Reveals

Uttar Pradesh has emerged as India's leader in capital investment and financial discipline, according to a recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).

The state's performance in the 2022-2023 fiscal year showcases a robust strategy of boosting infrastructure development while keeping a tight rein on daily expenses.

The CAG's State Finance Accounts report revealed that UP's capital expenditure hit a staggering ₹1.03 lakh crore, the highest figure among all 28 states. This massive investment in development and infrastructure is more than double the state's net public debt, a key indicator that borrowed funds are being used productively for asset creation rather than covering administrative costs.

Officials have credited this financial turnaround to the policies of the Yogi Adityanath government, which they say has successfully controlled revenue expenditure while creating a new history in capital spending.

Prudent Financial Management on Display

Beyond its record-breaking investments, Uttar Pradesh demonstrated remarkable control over its committed expenses like salaries and pensions. These fixed costs accounted for just 42.57% of its total revenue spending, a figure significantly lower than other major states such as Haryana (55.27%) and Tamil Nadu (50.97%).

The state's spending on salaries stood at 12.43% of its total budget, a sharp contrast to 16 other states where this figure exceeds 20%. This disciplined approach has allowed UP to channel more funds toward long-term growth.

Furthermore, the report highlighted that the state's revenue collections outpaced its revenue spending, solidifying its strong fiscal position. Over the last decade, UP has also received the highest share of central taxes in the country, further bolstering its financial capabilities.