'Delhi must become country's economic hub': CM Rekha Gupta at first Republic Day address

Rekha Gupta's Vision for Delhi on Republic Day

On a vibrant Sunday at Chhatrasal Stadium, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unfurled the national flag in her maiden Republic Day speech as the city's leader.

This marked the 77th Republic Day celebrations for the national capital, held a day early as per tradition.

Dignitaries including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh graced the occasion, alongside foreign mission representatives.

Gupta kicked off her address with resounding slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram', setting a patriotic tone for the gathered crowd.

She emphasized that January 26 stands as a symbol of India's self-respect, democratic values, and sovereignty.

Drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision, Gupta outlined a roadmap for a 'Viksit Delhi'.

Her government, in its 11-month tenure, has tackled decades of administrative hurdles, pushing forward on modernisation, healthcare, and economic growth.

Gupta highlighted the Constitution as the soul of India, praising it for guiding the nation towards justice, equality, and dignity over 77 years.

Push for Economic Hub and Key Initiatives

Delhi must become the country's strongest economic hub. With the upcoming India-EU trade deal, our MSMEs can tap into 4.5 million consumers in Europe, boosting local businesses and creating jobs for our youth.

Gupta stressed the need to position Delhi as the nation's economic powerhouse, linking it to potential gains from international trade agreements.

She presented a detailed report card of achievements in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and welfare.

Capital expenditure has doubled, with an MoU signed with the Reserve Bank of India to support these efforts.

In transportation, plans are underway to electrify the entire bus fleet by adding 11,000 electric buses over three years and expanding the metro network to 500 km from the current 396 km.

The Chief Minister announced ₹300 crore worth of projects focused on infrastructure and welfare.

Sports received a major boost, with ₹7 crore incentives for Olympic and Paralympic gold medallists, and construction starting on the Delhi Sports University at Mundka.

Judicial reforms include 53 new speed courts and hybrid courtrooms, while discussions continue on relocating Tihar Jail outside city limits.

Rural development got ₹1,700 crore, and ₹700 crore for slum infrastructure improvements.

Under the 'Safe City Project', 10,000 advanced CCTV cameras will be installed citywide.

Addressing Legacy Challenges and Community Call

Gupta addressed longstanding issues like Yamuna river cleaning, garbage dumps, and pollution with a structured plan.

She urged citizens and private establishments to adopt solar power, rainwater harvesting, and decentralised sewage treatment plants.

Promoting clean fuel vehicles and public transport, she envisioned a 'clean and green Delhi' through collective effort.

Tributes flowed to national icons: Lata Mangeshkar's 'Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon', Bharat Ratna B R Ambedkar, and anniversaries of figures like Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The 150th year of 'Vande Mataram' and RSS centenary were also noted as sources of inspiration.

Her speech painted Delhi's resilient history, rising from repeated destructions to strength.

Guided by 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', the government prioritizes people-centric decisions yielding real change.

Gupta appealed for public cooperation to build the Delhi of dreams – modern, developed, and inclusive.

In summary, Rekha Gupta's address blended patriotism with actionable plans, from economic ambitions to green initiatives, rallying Delhiites towards a prosperous future.