Delhi to Receive ₹1,348 Crore in Union Budget, CM Rekha Gupta Highlights Benefits of Central Schemes

New Delhi, Feb 2:
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday described the Union Budget 2026–27 as a strong step towards a developed and self-reliant India. Speaking at a press conference at the Delhi Secretariat, she said the budget not only boosts economic stability but also ensures social balance, opening new avenues for India’s capital.

CM Gupta expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting a forward-looking and balanced budget that addresses the needs of the common citizen. She also acknowledged Home Minister Amit Shah for his continued support to Delhi in maintaining law and order and effective administration.

Three Pillars of the Budget
The Chief Minister noted that the budget is based on three key principles:

1. Accelerating and sustaining the country’s economic growth.
2. Enhancing citizens’ capabilities while fulfilling their aspirations, ensuring inclusive development.
3. Implementing the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” (Collective growth for all).

She emphasized that the budget empowers youth, strengthens commitments to marginalized communities, promotes women’s empowerment, and provides relief to the middle class.

Enhanced Centre-State Coordination for Delhi
Highlighting the importance of cooperation between the Delhi government and the Centre, CM Gupta said that continuous dialogue on funding and projects has ensured that Delhi’s interests were specially considered in the budget. She stressed that sectors like roads, water, transport, health, employment, and security improve when the Centre and state work together, and this budget reflects such collaboration.

Boost to Infrastructure, Employment, and Capital Expenditure
CM Gupta called the budget clearly development-oriented, with increased capital expenditure to accelerate construction activities and employment generation. Capital spending has been raised from ₹11.2 lakh crore last year to ₹12.2 lakh crore, which will enable faster completion of projects, more roads, and greater employment opportunities, directly benefiting Delhi.

Focus on Women and Youth
Significant allocations have been made for women’s hostels to ensure uninterrupted education for girls. New skill-building initiatives, modern technology adoption, and employment pathways have been introduced for youth. Sectors such as health, sports, and tourism have also been prioritized for job creation. The budget, CM Gupta said, balances development, reform, and relief.

Promotion of the Orange Economy
The CM appreciated the Finance Minister’s focus on the Orange Economy—Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics (AVGC). Under this initiative, 15,000 secondary schools and 500 colleges nationwide will have ‘Content Creation Labs,’ with Delhi schools and colleges included. This is expected to foster creative talent and provide employment opportunities within the city.

Direct Assistance and Infrastructure Funding for Delhi
The Chief Minister highlighted that Delhi will receive ₹1,348 crore in direct central assistance, earmarked for infrastructure, water supply, and other essential services. Projects like the Chandrawal Water Treatment Plant are expected to improve water availability, enhance water pressure in older localities, and move towards 24-hour water supply.

Delhi Police Funding Secured
Delhi Police’s complete budget is borne by the Centre, a significant relief for the city. For 2026–27, ₹12,503 crore has been allocated, covering salaries, operations, vehicles, technology, and security infrastructure. This allows the Delhi government to direct its resources toward schools, hospitals, roads, and welfare schemes. CM Gupta particularly acknowledged the role of Home Minister Amit Shah in ensuring these provisions.

Special Assistance Scheme (SASCI) Expanded
Capital investment assistance under SASCI has been increased from ₹1.5 lakh crore to ₹2 lakh crore, a 33% boost, allowing Delhi to complete roads, flyovers, buses, water, and sewerage projects efficiently without additional budgetary pressure.

High-Speed Rail to Enhance Trade and Employment
CM Gupta noted that seven high-speed rail corridors, including Delhi–Varanasi, will improve travel, boost tourism, accelerate trade, and create new employment opportunities, strengthening Delhi’s position as a major economic and transport hub.

Support for Small Businesses and MSMEs
The budget emphasizes MSMEs and the service sector, which form the backbone of Delhi’s economy. A ₹10,000 crore fund will simplify access to capital and loans for small entrepreneurs, fostering business expansion and directly benefiting millions in the capital.

Ease of Doing Business Measures
Several initiatives aim to simplify business operations, assist municipal funding, relax IT and service sector regulations, and improve corporate bond frameworks. With Delhi housing numerous companies, startups, and professionals, these reforms are expected to increase investment, generate jobs, and boost the city’s economy.

Conclusion: Budget Reflects Commitment to Delhi
CM Gupta concluded that the Union Budget demonstrates the Centre’s serious commitment to Delhi’s development. Thanks to sustained efforts and dialogue, Delhi has secured concrete and effective provisions, which the state government will implement to ensure that every citizen benefits from these schemes.