Budget 2026: Rajasthan Leaders Criticize Centre for Overlooking State

Jaipur, Rajasthan: The presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27 on February 1 has sparked reactions across India, including in Rajasthan. Opposition leaders in the state have expressed disappointment, calling the budget underwhelming for Rajasthan.

Gahlot Highlights State’s Neglect
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticized the budget, stating that “the country’s largest state, Rajasthan, was not even mentioned in the budget speech, reflecting neglect towards the state.” He noted the absence of any mention of the ERCP project, new railway lines, or metro initiatives in Rajasthan. Gehlot added that there were no significant relief measures announced for the poor, laborers, and workers in the unorganized sector. Summing up, he described the budget as a “damp squib” for Rajasthan despite the double-engine government.

Dotasra Calls Budget Hollow
Congress leader Govind Singh Dotasra echoed the criticism, saying the budget highlights the gap between the Modi government’s promises and ground realities. He observed that the budget offered little relief for unemployed youth, middle-class taxpayers, struggling farmers, and startups. There were no income tax concessions, no steps to address employment, agricultural support, or MSP issues, and no clear measures for economic stability or the falling rupee. “For several years, the public has faced economic challenges, but the Modi government is only talking about hollow promises for 2047,” Dotasra said.

He added that Rajasthan, a state heavily reliant on agriculture and tourism, was once again sidelined. No national projects, no ERCP mention, no special packages, and no concrete announcements for essential programs such as Jal Jeevan Mission were included.

Pilot Points to Lack of Projects for Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh
Congress leader Sachin Pilot highlighted that the budget left the public, especially youth, disappointed. While the Finance Minister announced various schemes, the lack of a clear roadmap raises questions about actual employment opportunities for young people. He noted that past employment promises have not been transparently reviewed, leaving citizens uncertain about the state of underemployment.

Pilot also criticized the absence of major new projects in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, calling it an “electoral budget” that fails to deliver balanced development or meaningful support to the middle class, women’s empowerment, farmers, and rural economies.

Beniwal Says Budget Dashes State’s Hopes
Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal described the budget as disappointing, saying that although it is being promoted as the “Budget of a Developed India,” Rajasthan was entirely ignored. He pointed out that the rising fuel prices, issues facing youth, farmers, and the middle class in Rajasthan were not addressed.