Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has expressed optimism that the upcoming Union Budget will inject fresh momentum into the city's development initiatives. In a statement released on Saturday, January 31, 2026, Gupta conveyed her confidence that the budget would positively impact Delhi's development plans and support the overarching goal of building a developed Delhi.
Gupta highlighted the Central government's active involvement in several significant projects within the city. While she did not specify the projects, her statement underscores the collaborative efforts between the Delhi government and the Union government in driving Delhi's growth.
The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-2027, to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday, February 1, is expected to address key areas crucial for sustained economic growth and development. Expectations are high among households, businesses, and state governments, focusing on sustaining growth amid global uncertainties, easing pressure on middle-class finances, and reinforcing fiscal credibility.
Chief Minister Gupta has emphasized the necessity of developing colonies equipped with proper civic infrastructure to realize the vision of a developed Delhi. This emphasis aligns with her recent inauguration of projects worth Rs 135 crore for areas in the Mehrauli assembly constituency. These projects signal a commitment to improving the quality of life for Delhi residents through infrastructure development.
The Chief Minister's expectations are in line with the broader sentiment of ruling parties, who anticipate the budget will reflect the government's commitment to inclusive development. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak stated that the budget would represent the voices of farmers, youth, women, industrialists, and the poor.
Conversely, opposition leaders have expressed caution, suggesting they hold limited expectations from the budget and accusing the central government of neglecting certain states. This divergence in expectations highlights the political dynamics surrounding the Union Budget and the varying perspectives on its potential impact.
Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed strong expectations for the Union Budget, noting that the state typically receives more than anticipated. He also mentioned the PRAGATI portal, launched in 2014 under the Digital India campaign, which reviews projects across the country, including 42 projects worth ₹3.5 lakh crore in Uttarakhand.
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her ninth consecutive budget, the focus remains on whether the budget will meet the expectations of various stakeholders and provide the necessary impetus for Delhi's and the nation's continued development. The Union Budget 2026-27 is keenly awaited, with hopes that it will strengthen the vision of a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).
