Union Budget a step towards realising PM's vision of Viksit Bharat: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

Delhi CM Welcomes Union Budget with Enthusiasm

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has warmly welcomed the Union Budget 2026-27, calling it a significant stride towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a developed India, or Viksit Bharat. She viewed the budget presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman live from Tri Nagar in New Delhi, surrounded by local residents. Gupta emphasized the budget's people-centric approach, which prioritizes economic growth, infrastructure development, and support for key sectors like agriculture, youth employment, and urban renewal. Her comments reflect a strong alignment between central and state government efforts to boost Delhi's progress alongside national goals.

This budget marks the first for the new BJP-led administration in Delhi, and Gupta highlighted its continuity in funding, with Rs 1,348 crore allocated from the Ministry of Home Affairs, matching the previous year's figure. This includes revenue and capital components aimed at various city schemes. She noted that such provisions ensure steady support for ongoing projects, fostering collaboration between the Centre and states. Gupta's positive remarks contrast with criticisms from opposition figures, underscoring a divide in political reactions to the fiscal blueprint.

Key Allocations Boost Infrastructure and Connectivity

A standout feature of the budget, according to Gupta, is the Rs 1.4 lakh crore allocation for capital investment to states, including grants for rural and urban local bodies as well as disaster management. This substantial funding is expected to accelerate infrastructure projects across the country, with Delhi poised to benefit directly. The Chief Minister pointed to enhancements in urban development, public services, and connectivity, which will improve daily life for residents. Projects like the expansion of Delhi Metro phases, Yamuna cleaning initiatives, and sewage treatment plants continue to receive central backing, strengthening the city's modern transport network.

Gupta also celebrated the announcement of the Delhi-Varanasi high-speed rail corridor, describing it as a historic move towards Viksit Bharat. This connectivity boost is set to link Delhi with key economic hubs, promoting industrial growth and easier travel. Additionally, schemes like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana are gaining traction in Delhi, pushing clean energy adoption and environmental conservation in urban areas. These measures align with broader goals of sustainable development and innovation in sectors such as health, tourism, sports, and artificial intelligence.

"This budget is a step forward in realizing PM Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat, with Rs 1.4 lakh crore in capital expenditure for states that will help every state progress, boost infrastructure, and ensure benefits reach all sections of society through Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas."

Focus on Inclusive Growth and Future Prospects

Beyond infrastructure, the budget places emphasis on farmers' incomes, rural strengthening, and job creation for the youth, which Gupta said addresses the aspirations of every citizen. She appreciated the balanced approach combining fiscal responsibility with ambitious investments, allowing states to pursue big-ticket projects effectively. For Delhi, this translates to faster urban modernization, better civic amenities, and initiatives in education and healthcare. Gupta expressed optimism that these steps will elevate living standards and position India competitively on the global stage. The budget's design ensures development reaches the underprivileged, women, and rural areas, promoting equitable progress.

Gupta's praise underscores a cooperative federalism model, where central funds empower states to deliver on-ground results. She congratulated Finance Minister Sitharaman for crafting a forward-looking plan that encourages business ease and innovation across sectors. While opposition voices like former CM Arvind Kejriwal voiced concerns over inflation and unemployment, Gupta focused on the positives, seeing it as a blueprint for sustained recovery and prosperity. This budget sets the tone for collaborative governance in the coming year.

In summary, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta views the Union Budget 2026-27 as a people-centric, growth-oriented document that advances Viksit Bharat through massive capital outlays, infrastructure pushes, and inclusive policies, promising fresh momentum for Delhi's development.